Hair Loss in Women: Comprehensive Overview and Emotional Impact

The document from 2016 provides a comprehensive overview of hair loss in women, emphasizing the importance of not underestimating the emotional impact of this condition. It details the physiology of the hair cycle, including the growth (anagen), resting (telogen), and migratory phases, and notes that hair loss is a normal part of aging, with growth slowing by age 40. The hair-pull test is described as a method to determine the percentage of hair follicles in the telogen state, with a frequency of up to 25% being typical. Various causes of hair loss are discussed, including androgenic female pattern hair loss, side effects of drugs, nutritional deficiencies, hypothyroidism, and antigliadin antibodies related to gluten intolerance. The document suggests interventions such as improving blood glucose regulation, increasing antioxidant intake, and considering supplements like saw palmetto extract, vitamins C and E, zinc, vitamin A, essential fatty acids, and iron when deficiencies are present. It also mentions the potential role of hypothyroidism and gluten intolerance in hair loss, with the latter possibly leading to alopecia areata. Diagnostic features of celiac disease are also provided, including symptoms and the recommendation for testing for human anti-tissue transglutaminase antibodies for greater sensitivity.