Nearly all men and women will experience hair loss or thinning hair as they age. But not all hair loss is the same.

Hereditary-pattern baldness, or androgenetic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss.

When hair loss is hereditary, it usually gradual and occurs in predictable patterns. In men, this frequently means a receding hairline and bald spots. In women, thinning hair is common.

Hereditary-pattern baldness is typically identified by both the pattern of hair loss and a history of other family members with a similar type of hair loss. It may be influenced by a combination of factors, including your genetic predisposition, hormone levels, and the natural aging process.

However, genes aren’t always to blame. There are multiple other types and causes of hair loss. Below are 5 hidden reasons for non-hereditary hair loss and what you can do about it:

Stress

Uncontrolled stress is harmful to the entire body. High stress levels can cause a variety of negative health effects, including hair loss.

The most common type of stress-induced hair loss is known as telogen effluvium. It occurs when significant stress interrupts the hair’s growth cycle and sends follicles into a resting phase. This causes the hair to fall out or thin after a delayed period, up to several months later.

Stress related hair loss often follows a trigger event. This can be a physical shock such as surgery, illness, or rapid and significant weight loss. It can also occur after an emotional trauma such as the death of a loved one, a divorce, or job loss.

When hair loss is caused by stress, it is usually reversible. Hair should grow back on its own when stress levels are reduced. Effectively managing and minimizing stress is key to treating the condition. Getting adequate sleep, regular exercise, meditating or practicing other relaxation techniques can all be helpful ways to help keep stress in check.

Nutritional Deficiencies

Hair loss may be caused by nutritional deficiencies or imbalances, which can impact both hair structure and hair growth.

Sudden weight loss and restrictive, fad diets can lead to inadequate intake of key vitamins and minerals. Insufficient amounts of protein or iron in the diet have also been known to cause hair loss. In some cases, it can also result from getting too much of certain nutrients.

Maintaining a balanced diet and ensuring proper nutrition are essential to healthy, normal hair growth. Eating nutrient-rich foods such as veggies, salmon, avocado, and almonds can help support hair health and provide your body with the fuel it needs to function its best.

Nutritional supplements may also help hair loss and promote growth, however, always consult your healthcare professional.

Medication Side Effects

Some prescription medications can cause hair loss. A number of various drugs list hair loss as a potential side effect, including certain heart, blood pressure, and arthritis medications. Blood thinners, antidepressants, and birth control are also among some of the most common medications that can potentially cause hair loss. Certain supplements can also induce hair loss. Taking too much vitamin A, in particular, is known to be such a factor.

If a medication is causing your hair loss, talk to your doctor about your options. Your doctor may be able to prescribe an alternative medication. Hair loss that results from taking a certain medication normally stops when the medication is discontinued.

Underlying Health Conditions

Hair loss can also signal the presence of an underlying health condition or disease. It can be one of the early signs of illnesses such as lupus, diabetes, or thyroid disease.

Hair that falls out suddenly or in clumps, or complete hair loss in any one area of the scalp aren’t typical symptoms of hereditary-pattern baldness. Hair loss that occurs with redness and skin irritation can also suggest a different problem. It’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional and identify the cause of your hair loss.

Hormone Imbalance

Hormone imbalances and shifts in hormone production can cause hair to thin and fall out. In both women and men, a change in hormone production levels typically occurs at midlife and can be a potential culprit for hair loss. However, hormones can become out of balance for a variety of reasons at any age.

The thyroid gland plays an important role in regulating hormone levels and hair loss is one of the most common symptoms of thyroid dysfunction. This can signal the body is producing too much or too little thyroid hormone.

Hair loss due to hormone imbalances is usually a temporary condition and can often be resolved by correcting the hormone imbalance.

Concerned about hair loss? At Ohio Hair Restoration we can help you identify the cause of your hair loss and the right treatment plan for your needs. Contact us today to find the hair loss solution that works for you.