Hair loss, its management and prevention

Introduction
Nowadays, one of the most important concern around the world is hair loss and hair thinning. And it often leads to psychological disturbance, that is why different approaches are used to overcome the challenge.
Typically hair loss is defined as a disorder caused by an interruption in the body’s cycle of hair production. Hair loss can occur anywhere on the body, but most commonly affects the scalp.


Many factors can affect hair cycle such :
1.Stress& anxiety
2.Ageing
3.Thyroid disease
– Severe and prolonged hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause loss of hair. The hair loss is diffuse and involves the entire scalp rather than discrete areas. The hair appears uniformly sparse.
Regrowth would be achieved with successful treatment of the thyroid disorder, though it will take

4.Genetic
5.Hormonal Changes
-Hormones affect hair loss because they control the hair growth cycle. As your hair grows, it cycles
through stages. During the growth phase, hair actively grows for 2-7 years or longer. The next stage,
called the transition phase, occurs when the follicles shrink and hair growth slows down.

6.Childbirth
-Many moms experience excessive hair loss after pregnancy. Hair loss usually peaks about four months after giving birth. After one nearly year, most women regain their normal hair growth.

7. Low levels of iron
-When you don’t have enough iron, your body can’t produce the hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin carries oxygen for the growth and repair of cells in your body, including the cells that stimulate hair growth.

8.Poor nutrition
-When you don’t have enough biotin, your hair becomes brittle and begins to fall out. Not consuming enough fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C makes it more difficult for your body to absorb iron, and as discussed previously, iron deficiency causes hair loss.

Types of hair loss:
1- male/female pattern hair loss: is a progressive, genetic hair loss which affects males predominantly and also females after puberty.
2- Telogen effluvium: is chronic and characterized by diffuse, often acute hair shedding. Due to excessive shedding of resting or telogen hair after some emotional stress, iron deficiency, hormonal changes, or medication.
3- Anagen Effluvium : is rapid hair loss resulting from medical treatment, such as chemotherapy. These regiments would kill cancer cells rapidly, but so do, they may also shut down hair follicle production in the scalp and other parts of the body. After chemotherapy ends, hair usually grows back on its own.
4-Alopecia Areata: is an autoimmune condition, which means the body’s immune system attacks healthy hair follicles. This causes hair to fall out in small patches and prevents new hair from growing.
5-Tinea Capitis : also called scalp ringworm, is a fungal infection of the scalp that’s a common cause of hair loss in children. And there are many other types of hair thinning that are uncommon and are affected by various factors.
 
Management of hair loss:
1-male/female pattern hair loss: use of topical minoxidil and oral finasteride are the first-line treatments for male pattern hair loss, and topical minoxidil is the first-line treatment for female pattern hair loss.
2- Telogen effluvium: patient should resolve on their own, by managing stress, Correcting Nutritional Deficiencies Through Diet or taking supplements.
3- Anagen Effluvium: the lost hair resolves as chemotherapy stops also can be stimulated though prescribed minoxidil.
4-Alopecia Areata: according to traditional guidelines use of injectable or topical steroids at the affected sites. The newest studies suggest use of FDA approved JAK inhibitor baricitinib ( Olumiant), a daily pill, for adults with severe alopecia areata.
5- Tinea Capitis : taking systemic antifungal medications and topical shampoos.


Prevention strategies:
1. Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients like vitamins (A, B, C, D, and E), minerals (iron, zinc, and selenium), and protein can promote hair health.

Incorporating foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains supports hair follicle strength and growth.

2. Stress Management: Chronic stress can contribute to hair loss, so practicing stress-reduction techniques such as deep breathing exercises, or engaging in hobbies can help manage stress levels .

3. Gentle Hair Care: Avoiding harsh hair treatments, excessive heat styling, and tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp can minimize damage to hair follicles.

4. Scalp Care: Keeping the scalp clean and healthy is essential for preventing hair loss. Regular scalp massages can stimulate blood flow to the hair follicles,

5. Medical Interventions: In some cases, medical treatments may be necessary to prevent or slow down hair loss. These can include topical treatments like minoxidil, oral medications like finasteride, and low-level laser therapy. Consulting a healthcare professional or dermatologist can help determine the most suitable treatment plan