Why am I losing hair?
Sep 10, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
Hair loss usually refers to alopecia, which may generally be caused by stress and anxiety, malnutrition, scalp infections, alopecia areata, hyperthyroidism, etc. Applying relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga in daily life can help reduce stress. Maintaining adequate rest, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding late nights contribute to a healthy scalp condition.
Hair loss usually refers to alopecia, which may generally be caused by factors such as stress and anxiety, malnutrition, scalp infections, alopecia areata, or hyperthyroidism. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to identify the underlying cause and receive appropriate treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can trigger the body's stress response, leading to hormonal imbalances that may disrupt the hair follicle growth cycle, causing hair to stop growing and eventually fall out. Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga in daily life can help reduce stress.
2. Malnutrition
Hair growth depends on adequate nutritional supply. Malnutrition directly affects hair health, causing hair to become thin and brittle, ultimately leading to shedding. Maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring sufficient intake of protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins can help improve hair loss symptoms.
3. Scalp Infections
Fungal or bacterial infections of the scalp can cause inflammation, damaging hair follicles and depriving hair of necessary nutrients and support. This makes hair fragile and prone to breakage and eventual loss. Common symptoms include scalp itching, redness, swelling, and hair loss. Treatment may include medications such as erythromycin ointment, ketoconazole shampoo, or selenium sulfide shampoo, as directed by a physician.
4. Alopecia Areata
Alopecia areata is often associated with genetic, autoimmune, and neuropsychiatric factors. When the immune system mistakenly attacks hair follicles, it damages them and prevents normal hair growth, resulting in round or oval patches of hair loss. Patients may also experience loss of eyelashes or hair from other body areas. Treatment options under medical supervision may include compounds such as compound glycyrrhizin tablets, cyclosporine soft capsules, or total glucosides of paeony capsules.
5. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive thyroid hormones. Thyroid dysfunction leads to hormonal imbalances that disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, making hair loss more likely. Common symptoms include weight changes, abnormal heart rate, and hair shedding. Medications such as levothyroxine sodium tablets, methimazole tablets, or propylthiouracil tablets may be used as prescribed by a doctor.
In daily life, managing stress appropriately, ensuring adequate rest, maintaining a balanced diet, and avoiding late nights can help preserve scalp health.
