What Causes Severe Hair Loss?

Posted on Mon, 31 Jul 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Mon, 31 Jul 2017 Answered on

Tue, 22 Aug 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I am a 57 year old women and my hair is falling out. It's not coming out in clumps but my hairbrushes fill up with hair.

Answered by Dr. Dr. U N Sahoo (2 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Hair loss

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for your question on HCM

I do understand your concern

With such a presentation in my clinic, I would first rule out [alopecia] by a clinical exam and to confirm it you need blood test like TSH and a scalp biopsy to confirm exact underlying cause of alopecia. Regarding further loss of hair you can try OTC medication [minoxidil]foam on scalp.

You can do few preventive steps like this at home-:

1)Eat a balanced diet and add a multivitamin caps at bed time

2)Try to avoid tight hair styles like braids, buns and ponytails

3)Try to avoid twisting, rubbing, or pulling your hair

4)Use a wide toothed comb to prevent hair pulling

5)Try to avoid harsh treatments such as hot rollers, curling irons etc

Hope that helps

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T