Hair Loss

Hair loss, also known as alopecia or baldness, refers to a loss of hair from part of the head or body, typically involving at least the head. Severity ranges from a small area to the entire body, and inflammation or scarring is not usually present. Common types include male- or female-pattern hair loss, alopecia areata and the thinning called telogen effluvium. Male-pattern hair loss arises from a combination of genetics and male hormones, alopecia areata is autoimmune, and telogen effluvium typically follows a physically or psychologically stressful event and is very common following pregnancy. Less common causes include hair pulling, chemotherapy, HIV/AIDS, hypothyroidism and malnutrition. In some people it causes psychological distress.