There are many reasons why hair loss occurs. In most cases, it is genetic, which means you’ve inherited the hair loss gene from your parents. But sometimes it can also be the result of an underlying health issue you may have. Here are the three most common medical conditions that cause hair loss.
1. Thyroid Disease
Thyroid disease occurs when this gland produces more or less than normal of the hormones T3 and T4. This results in a hormonal imbalance, which may lead to hair loss. The symptoms will affect your entire scalp, and not just patches of your hair. As such, it is easy to tell it apart from male pattern baldness. The hair loss will usually stop after you’ve completed your treatment. But it may take an extra few months for your hair to grow back.
2. Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that occurs when your immune system starts fighting your own body. Hair loss is a common side effect of the disease, but it can appear in different ways. In some cases, it may cause your hair to fall out in patches. At the same time, some people experience an even, gradual thinning of the hair. This symptom is usually temporary. But if round lesions start forming on your scalp, it may become permanent.
3. Scleroderma
Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease caused by the increased production of collagen. It is also one of the conditions that cause hair loss, but unlike lupus, it is chronic. This means that the symptoms might persist despite treatment. It starts with gradual thinning of your hair, which may become permanent over time. What’s more, it may also result in the formation of itchy sores on your scalp.
Final Word
In most cases, the hair loss that occurs as a result of these medical conditions will go away with proper treatment. It is thus important to go for your regular medical checkups to catch any health issues early on. Even if the condition is chronic, early treatment may help reduce these symptoms.
