Hair Loss: When Should I Worry?

Which season does hair fall out?

We all have moments in our lives when we see our hair fall. Usually the effect is most pronounced in the autumn months, when the leaves of the trees fill our balconies and yards, while our hairs cover our home floor! But apart from seasonal hair loss, many notice changes in their hair other times of the year as well. 

How long does seasonal hair loss lasts?

A question we all have in our minds every fall, as we don’t know whether there is a cause for concern or not. Seasonal hair loss normally lasts from 3 weeks to 2 months.

When should we worry?

According to experts, it is normal to drop 50-100 hairs daily. This is the constant renewal our body does without us realizing it. Every day many hairs are born and die in our head! However, if we notice more intense and persistent hair loss, something else may be going on in our body. If you think that your seasonal hair loss lasts far longer or is more intense than usual, it is advisable to consult an expert.

• Worrying factors

1. Stress

One of the most common hair loss factors is severe stress. Often what we hear and live daily makes our hair literally fall! Quick rhythms of life, stress and anxiety often affect us to such an extent that our health begins to be affected. If this is your problem, then finding a solution to managing and coping with stress will also help to relieve hair loss.

Sometimes though, stress may not be emotional, but physical, such as in some illness, surgery or serious infection. Hair follicles stop the growth phase when the body experiences a mental or physical trauma.

2. Thyroid disorders

If, along with hair loss, you notice severe fatigue and changes in your mood, it is possible to have a thyroid disorder and not know it. Chronic hair loss is very likely an indication that thyroid hormones have been deregulated. That is why it would be advisable to take the appropriate exams.

3. Hair loss after birth

Although hair becomes thicker and looks healthier during pregnancy, many mothers notice severe hair loss after birth. Hair is thinning and weakening, due to abrupt hormonal changes. Gradually, as the hormones balance, your hair will return to normal. However, it would be advisable to discuss this with your doctor.

4. Nutrition deficiencies

Very often, the reason for one’s scalp changes is the lack of nutrients in their daily diet. This can happen either from the wrong food choices or from sudden weight loss with low calorie diets.

Nutrients such as iron, zinc, selenium, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins A, D, E, niacin, folic acid, biotin, as well as proteins and amino acids all play their own special role in our hair health.

What tests should I do for hair loss?

Some blood tests that your doctor is likely to order to properly identify the cause are:

• Iron and ferritin levels
• Thyroid test (TSH, T3, T4, FT4)
• Zinc
• B vitamins (eg B12, riboflavin, biotin, folic acid)

These tests could shed light on the case, as a nutritional deficiency or pathological condition could lead to severe hair loss.

If this is the case, put the right foods in your daily routine, and if the problem is severe, choose a hair loss supplement that contains the nutrients you are missing!

So if you notice an unusual hair fall, ask yourself whether it is due to stress, a nutritional deficiency or an indication of a health issue. Find out the cause of the problem and tackle hair loss at its root!

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