I’ve been experiencing hair loss for nearly a year—what should I do?

Jun 08, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I’m not sure why, but I’ve been experiencing excessive hair loss over the past year, and my hair seems to be thinning noticeably. What should I do about persistent hair shedding over the last year?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Liu Wan
First, identify the underlying cause of hair loss, then implement targeted treatment. Common causes of hair loss include: 1. **Physiological (normal) hair shedding**: Hair undergoes natural turnover; shedding up to 100 hairs per day is considered normal and does not require treatment. 2. **Androgenetic alopecia (seborrheic alopecia) and alopecia areata**: These conditions require medical evaluation and treatment under a physician’s guidance. Specific anti-androgen medications—such as finasteride and spironolactone—may be prescribed, along with topical hair-regrowth solutions. 3. **Stress-related hair loss**: Excessive mental stress, anxiety, or insomnia can also trigger hair shedding. In such cases, lifestyle adjustments—including stress management, improved sleep hygiene, and adopting healthy daily habits—are essential.