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Compliments of American Academy Of  Family Physicians

Hair Loss

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Many reasons can be found for temporary or permanent hair loss. Some causes are reversible, as shown in this chart.

SYMPTOMS

  

DIAGNOSIS

  

SELF-CARE
Begin here        
1. Do you have small patches of hair that are falling out? No --> Go to Question 3.*    
Yes, go down        
2. Are these patches red, itchy or oily? Yes --> This type of hair loss can be caused by SEBORRHEA, LICHEN PLANUS or RINGWORM. --> See your doctor.
No --> Small, coin-sized bald areas may be from ALOPECIA AREATA. --> See your doctor.
*3. Are you a man who has had gradual hair loss in the front or on the top of your head and has relatives with similar hair loss? Yes --> You probably have classic MALE-PATTERN BALDNESS. --> Many shampoos and treatments claim to reverse or slow balding. One prescription medicine, called minoxidil, is available, but it's expensive and effective for only one-third of patients.
No, go down        
4. Have you used any chemicals on your hair, or have you worn tight braids or cornrows that may have damaged your scalp? Yes --> Your loss is probably due to FOLLICULAR DAMAGE. --> Don't use these hair treatments or wear these styles again. Hair will usually regrow by itself.
No, go down        
5. Are you taking any new medicines, or are you being treated for cancer? Yes --> Your hair loss is probably related to your MEDICINES, STEROIDS or CHEMOTHERAPY. --> Discuss these medicines with your doctor.
No, go down        
6. Have you been weak, tired or anxious? Yes --> You may have IRON or ZINC DEFICIENCY, THYROID DISEASE or excess STRESS. --> Discuss these conditions with your doctor.
No, go down        
7. Are you a woman who has just given birth (within the last three months), or are you older than 50? Yes --> HORMONE CHANGES may cause hair loss in women. If it has occurred gradually with advancing age, FOLLICULAR DEGENERATION may be the cause. --> Most of these hormone changes will reverse without any treatment. While aging follicles cannot be reversed, gentle hair care may prolong the life of some degenerating follicles.
No, go down        
For more information, please consult your doctor.  

This tool has been reviewed by doctors and is for general educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for medical advice. The information in this tool should not be relied upon to make decisions about your health. Always consult your family doctor with questions about your individual condition(s) and/or circumstances. Source: American Academy of Family Physicians. Family Health & Medical Guide. Dallas: Word Publishing; 1996.

Copyright © 2006 American Academy of Family Physicians
 

 
 
 

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