What causes hair loss?

Gradual thinning at the temples, crown, or parting can reflect androgenetic pattern hair loss. Diffuse shedding that starts after a major illness, emotional strain, surgery, or substantial body change may be telogen effluvium. Smooth round patches can occur with alopecia areata, an immune-related condition. Scalp ringworm may cause scale, broken hairs, tenderness, or patches of loss. Tight braids, extensions, or repeated tension can lead to traction alopecia. Low iron or other nutritional problems may contribute, but supplements are best guided by an assessment rather than taken blindly.

Note when shedding began, whether it is diffuse or patchy, and any illness, medication, diet change, or hairstyle change beforehand. Use gentle hair care, loosen styles that pull, and avoid harsh chemical processing while the cause is unclear. A clinician can examine the scalp, review medicines and health history, and decide whether blood tests or other checks are appropriate. Treatment depends on the pattern; options may include topical minoxidil, prescription treatment, or specialist procedures.

Arrange an appointment for sudden or rapidly worsening loss, smooth patches, scalp pain, scaling, pus, redness, or broken hairs. Seek prompt advice when loss affects eyebrows or eyelashes, follows a new medicine, or occurs with fatigue, weight change, menstrual changes, or other new symptoms. Early review matters when ongoing traction or inflammation could injure follicles.

Ask what pattern is visible, whether the scalp shows inflammation or infection, and whether any medicine or health event could explain the timing. Discuss realistic treatment goals, expected time before change is noticeable, and how to protect remaining hair.