Men's Health

Hair Loss

Written by Mark Abell

Although in most cases hair loss is a cosmetic problem rather than a true problem which deserves attention, there are a few cases in medicine whereas the loss of hair can be linked to a specific medical entity. Hair loss, in the general term, is called alopecia; and hair loss secondary to male pattern baldness, the most common reason for the problem, is referred to as androgenetic alopecia. While there are clinics all over the world who have made strides in transplantation of hair secondary to male pattern baldness, a cure for the "cosmetic problem" is not considered possible, at least not very soon.

Perhaps the most common cause of hair loss (besides male pattern baldness) is the breakage of the hair shaft itself, which can be caused by a number of different medical reasons. First, and foremost, particularly in children, is the fungal infection, or tinea capitis. The most common forms of this disease are found in children under the age of ten. The lesion first appears as a small red area which later spreads to form a crusty appearance, which sometimes has an "exudate" or a discharge. The area is extremely itchy. The problem usually arises from contact with animals or different soil areas. Treatment is available, which generally cures the problem within weeks; it should be noted that the child should refrain from being around the animal or the culprit, which is generally the cat. Other (less common) causes of hair loss (also found in children) are Trichotillomania, which is actually the pulling out of one's own hair - it can be related to a psychological problem, and Trichorrhexis Nodosa, which is a mechanical or chemical damage to the hair shaft. Generally, the "patient" will have a history of "chronic scratching" or manipulation of the hair, as in brushing needlessly.

Getting back to male pattern baldness, however, gives attention to the fact that it affects up to two-thirds of the male population. The hair loss generally starts at the temples after the age of 30 (although it has been reported to occur sooner). Sometimes, women are affected by the problem, but their hair loss is almost always seen over the crown, rather than the temples. In either case, and in either sex, it causes more of a psychological problem than medical, and, again, it is purely cosmetic. The condition, androgenetic alopecia, is the result of the effect of androgen on hair follicles that have "genetic receptor" sites. Initially, as the problem first arises, the hair starts to appear "thin", and there is loss of very thin hair; later, as the problem continues, hair is replaced but at a slower and slower speed, resulting, eventually, in the bald area. It is always symmetrical; so if there is non-symmetrical hair loss, as in only one side of the head, think about other reasons for the hair loss and not male pattern baldness.

There is treatment for male pattern baldness. For one thing, as mentioned in the beginning of the article, clinics which specialize in hair transplantation are becoming vogue; but there is also a lot of attention being placed on their success rates and stories. It would be wise, therefore, to check out the clinic's reputation or talk with your doctor for a referral. Secondly, there is the medication called Rogaine. Discovered clearly by accident to cause hair growth, the medication has its benefits and limitations. Once provided only as a prescription medicine, it is now available over the counter for general use. The medication has been reported to be useful for hair growth in about fifty percent of the people who use it. Again, it would be wise to talk with your physician before trying either method. There will always be other ways to cover your problem, such as a toupee` or wearing a hat. By the way, contrary to what would be referred to as a popular belief, the wearing of a hat (or other head gear) does not promote male pattern baldness.

For those who might want to surf the Internet for more information about male pattern baldness, check out the following URL's:

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