What should you know about hers hair loss?

Notice whether hair is shedding from all over, thinning mainly at the part or crown, or forming smooth patches. Sudden shedding after illness, major stress, weight change, or childbirth can fit telogen effluvium. Gradual widening of the part may fit female pattern hair loss, while round smooth patches can occur with alopecia areata. Tight braids, extensions, or repeated pulling can cause traction alopecia. Scale, broken hairs, tenderness, or swollen areas may suggest scalp ringworm and need medical treatment.

Hair loss is a symptom rather than a diagnosis. A clinician may examine the scalp, review medicines and health changes, and consider blood tests when the history suggests a nutritional, hormonal, or other medical contributor.

Take clear photographs of the part, hairline, or patch in consistent lighting and note when the change began. Use gentle washing, avoid tight styles and harsh chemical processing, and do not start supplements or prescription treatment without checking whether they fit your health needs. Treatment depends on the cause; options may include observation, treatment of scalp disease, or therapies for pattern loss. Finasteride treatment is not suitable for everyone and requires a clinician’s review, especially for anyone who could become pregnant.

Book an assessment for persistent, progressive, or distressing thinning. Seek prompt care for rapidly developing bald patches, painful or inflamed scalp, pus, heavy scale, broken hairs, or hair loss with fatigue, marked weight change, menstrual changes, or other new symptoms. Urgent review is appropriate for facial swelling, severe scalp pain, or signs of a serious infection.

What pattern does my hair loss follow? Could a recent illness, medicine, hormonal change, or tight hairstyle contribute? Do I need scalp testing or blood tests? Which treatment fits my goals and pregnancy plans?