Could Hair Loss Signal Something More Serious For You?

Experiencing any amount of hair loss can be unsettling, but it's important to learn when it might indicate something more serious. While some hair fallout is normal, an abnormal amount could be a red flag for underlying health issues. 

At Este Medical Group, we specialise in hair loss restoration, and understand the urgency of addressing hair loss promptly. Pinpointing the root cause of hair loss is crucial, as it could be linked to medical conditions such as thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases like alopecia, as well as extreme stress, hormonal imbalances, or significant nutritional deficiencies.  

If you've noticed a correlation between recent hair loss and any health concerns, seeking professional guidance is vital to address potential medical causes effectively.

‍Curious about the health of your scalp and hair follicles? Take the first step towards answers with a free hair loss consultation at one of our Este Medical clinics. Don't wait any longer — book your appointment now and regain control over your hair health. 

‍Understanding the Basics of Hair Loss

Hair loss doesn't discriminate by age; it can happen to anyone, regardless of their stage in life. While it tends to become more prevalent as we get older, dramatic hair loss can occur unexpectedly. Traditionally, men have been more affected by visible hair loss and balding than women. However, it's important to acknowledge that both men and women can find the experience emotionally challenging and distressing.

Hair loss can be attributed to various factors. Both men and women may experience hair loss due to one or a combination of the following causes:

• Hereditary condition
• Ageing
• Hormonal changes (e.g., menopause)
• Severe stress
• Vitamin deficiency
• Medications
• Medical conditions
• Hairstyles and hair treatments

‍Men & Normal Hair Loss: Men experience hair loss in various forms, including shedding, hair thinning, patchiness, receding hairline, and bald spots. With age, there's typically a gradual decline in male hair volume. The primary cause of hair loss in men is male pattern baldness.

‍Women & Normal Hair Loss: The most common type of hair loss in women is called female pattern hair loss. It often begins with hair thinning along the centre hair part and progresses to overall hair loss, making the scalp more visible. Hormonal changes during menopause further contribute to thinning, as oestrogen and progesterone levels decline, leading to slower hair growth and increased hair shedding.

Take a moment to learn about Hair Loss Myths and Facts, this Este hair loss resource will help you to separate hair loss facts from fiction.

Bald spots, a thinning crown, decreased hair volume, and pattern hair loss in both men and women are typically considered normal variations of hair loss and not signs of any life-threatening conditions.

However, if there is significant hair fallout or massive hair shedding, accompanied by noticeable changes to the scalp, it could be indicative of an underlying health condition more serious than normal hair loss.

‍Hair Loss & The Hair Growth Cycle 

Disruptions to the normal hair growth cycle can lead to significant hair loss because they interfere with the natural process of hair renewal. Hair grows in cycles, with each strand going through phases of growth, transition, and rest. When this cycle is disrupted — for example, due to hormonal imbalances, stress, or medical treatments — it can cause more hairs to enter the resting phase prematurely and shed at the same time, resulting in noticeable hair loss.

Have a look at this Este Medical hair loss blog: How to tell the difference between normal hair shedding and a potential hair loss condition.

‍What Are Medical Causes Of Hair Loss To Be Concerned About? 

Here are several health conditions that may display as hair loss symptoms. It's important not to panic or jump to conclusions if you experience or suspect any of these symptoms.

• Thyroid Disorders: Both hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) can lead to hair loss. Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating the hair growth cycle. When thyroid function is disrupted, it can result in hair thinning or loss. Other symptoms of thyroid disorders may include fatigue, weight changes, and changes in mood.
• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions such as alopecia areata and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are autoimmune diseases that can cause hair loss. In alopecia areata, the immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to patchy hair loss on the scalp or elsewhere on the body. With SLE, hair loss may occur as a result of inflammation affecting the skin and scalp.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies, particularly iron deficiency anaemia, can contribute to hair loss. Iron is essential for the production of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the cells, including hair follicles. When there is insufficient iron, hair growth may be impaired, leading to thinning or shedding. Other nutrients important for hair health include zinc, vitamin D, and biotin.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Hormonal changes, such as those seen in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or during menopause, can affect hair growth. In PCOS, elevated levels of androgens (male hormones) can lead to excess hair growth in some areas (hirsutism) and hair loss or thinning on the scalp. During menopause, declining oestrogen levels can contribute to hair thinning or loss.

Remember, while hair loss can sometimes be a symptom of these conditions, it's just one piece of the puzzle. Getting a proper diagnosis from a healthcare professional or hair loss expert is key for effective management and future hair loss prevention. Plus, tackling the underlying health issue can often lead to improvements in hair loss, so there's hope for a positive outcome!

Schedule a free hair loss consultation with the scalp and hair experts at Este Medical Group to determine your type of hair loss and if there is something more serious to consider. 

‍Visit Este Medical to Assess Your Hair Loss & Take Action Before Things Become More Serious 

You are not alone when it comes to hair loss, even big name celebrities like Drake and ‍Jada Pinkett Smith have dealt with medical related hair loss issues. Now that you can see links between hair loss and several underlying health conditions you are better prepared to take action. 

Whether your hair loss is caused by hormonal imbalances, autoimmune diseases or nutritional deficiencies, getting professional help can reveal valuable clues to the degree and severity of your type of hair loss. 

If you're experiencing hair loss or noticing changes in your hair, don't ignore it. Seek medical advice from a healthcare professional or hair loss expert as soon as possible. Remember, early intervention can lead to better hair regrowth outcomes, so contact Este Medical Group today and arrange for a free hair loss assessment!