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What Causes Hair Loss?

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Posted on Thu, 20 Nov 2014
Question: I AM LOOSING MY HAIR. IM 67 AND THE FIRST OF AUGUST MY HAIR STARTED TO FALL OUT. THE HAIR CHANGED TEXTURE AND AND IT IS NOT OILY I ONLY WASH MY HAIR ONCE A WEEK AND I USE TO WASH IT EVERY DAY.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (28 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
needs thyroid checked

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for using HCM. There are many causes for hair loss including medications, medical conditions and stress. The most common of these in women is a thyroid disorder, but other conditions may also cause problems like skin conditions or autoimmune disorders. Blood tests can look for thyroid problems and autoimmune disorders. The stress I mentioned is not necessarily emotional stress but it could be something like having a surgery or being in an auto accident. These put stress on the body and can result in hair loss. It is not uncommon for women after menopause to lose hair and we are not sure if they are related or if they just occur at the same time in our lives. It looks like your doctor already has you on spironolactone and that can be an effective treatment for hair loss in women. There are also over the counter products like minoxidil that you can apply to your scalp to help with hair growth. If the problem persists and no cause is found medically you may need to see a dermatologist for a skin biopsy of your scalp. I hope this helps and that your problem resolves soon.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Kathy Robinson (4 hours later)
How long does it take for spironolact to show results
doctor
Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (2 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
It can take 4-6 months

Detailed Answer:
Hello again,
Because hair grows slowly it can take 4-6 months for spironolactone to start showing improvements. Let me know if you have other questions and have a good day.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Kathy Robinson (1 hour later)
What would a skin biopsy show
doctor
Answered by Dr. Kathy Robinson (2 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
scalp diseases

Detailed Answer:
Hi. Sometimes hair loss is caused by scalp diseases like seborrhea or psoriasis. A biopsy of the skin in the area of your hair loss could make this type of diagnosis.
Hope you get the answer soon.
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Kathy Robinson

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :1989

Answered : 3535 Questions

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What Causes Hair Loss?

Brief Answer: needs thyroid checked Detailed Answer: Hello and thank you for using HCM. There are many causes for hair loss including medications, medical conditions and stress. The most common of these in women is a thyroid disorder, but other conditions may also cause problems like skin conditions or autoimmune disorders. Blood tests can look for thyroid problems and autoimmune disorders. The stress I mentioned is not necessarily emotional stress but it could be something like having a surgery or being in an auto accident. These put stress on the body and can result in hair loss. It is not uncommon for women after menopause to lose hair and we are not sure if they are related or if they just occur at the same time in our lives. It looks like your doctor already has you on spironolactone and that can be an effective treatment for hair loss in women. There are also over the counter products like minoxidil that you can apply to your scalp to help with hair growth. If the problem persists and no cause is found medically you may need to see a dermatologist for a skin biopsy of your scalp. I hope this helps and that your problem resolves soon.