Hair Loss

The article from January 2003 in Postgraduate Medicine discusses various aspects of hair loss, including its causes, duration, and treatment options. Hair loss, or alopecia, can be due to hormonal changes, genetic predisposition, diseases, nutritional deficiencies, medication side effects, and poor hair care practices. Androgenetic alopecia is common in men starting between ages 20 and 40 and affects at least one in four women. Alopecia areata, affecting 1 in 100 people, leads to sudden bald patches and may be associated with other diseases. Hair loss typically starts 6 to 16 weeks after the triggering event and may stop after several months, except in cases of androgenetic alopecia. Treatments vary, with finasteride and minoxidil being options for men, and minoxidil, hormonal, or iron supplements for women. Steroid drugs may help with alopecia areata. However, the article cautions against believing in unproven cures like vitamins, herbs, or supplements.