Hair Loss Treatment

The most common cause is a condition called “androgenetic alopecia.”

It can affect both men and women, but in different ways. Men usually have bald areas at the front and top of the scalp. In contrast, women develop thinning hair on the top of the scalp, but usually without losing all of the hair there.

Another common is “alopecia areata.” This happens when the immune system attacks the skin areas where hair grows. In this type, people might have small round spots or larger areas of hair missing.

Other reasons could be medical conditions and some medicines.

You should see a doctor when you experience the following:

• Bothered by your hair loss
• Not sure why you are losing hair
• Hair loss occurs suddenly
• Have itching or pain on your scalp
• Don’t feel well or feel very tired

Usually, hair loss does not require tests. But in some cases, you might need to do tests to confirm that it is not caused by a hormonal problem or another underlying medical condition.

There are numerous approaches to treat hair loss. In some cases, doctors need to identify the primary cause. Medications can come in different forms including topicals, scalp injections and pills. Some areas, however, cannot grow hair back without surgery.

Treatment options depending on the type include:

Androgenetic alopecia 

• Minoxidil (Rogaine): used by men and women.
• Finasteride (Propecia): for men and sometimes women after menopause.
• Spironolactone (Aldactone): for those who do not have good results with minoxidil.

Alopecia areata

• • Steroids: given as shots or applied to the scalp.
  • Topical immunotherapy