- my iParenting
- quick clicks
- grandparents today articles
- grandparents today q&a
- community & groups
- research baby names
- prepare a birth plan
- content channels
- ip channel rss feeds
- read birth stories
- read parenting stories
- recommended books
- e-newsletters
- safety recalls
- ip diaries
- ip store
- mom of the month
- dad of the month
- editor's letter
- letters to the editor
From Our Sponsors
- e-newsletters
- Sign up to receive our free weekly e-newsletters
- award-winning products
The iParenting Media Awards program helps parents find the best products for their families.
Getting to the Root of
Hair Loss
Women Battling a Common yet Vexing Condition By Teri Brown
nges in diet, a skin condition, emotional stress or sudden weight loss can all impact the growth cycle of hair.
Julie Klineline, from Sallisaw, Okla., went to her doctor soon after she noticed her hair thinning in the front. After a series of tests she was diagnosed with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and put on medication.
"The glucophage has stopped the thinning, but did little to thicken up what was left," says Klineline. "I realized the hair loss helped to signal a serious health problem, so my feelings toward the thin spot became a bit more generous."
"The first thing a woman should do when she first notices hair loss is contact her physician," says Dr. Mary Wendel, director of the Women's Hair Loss Center in Boston, Mass. "Seeing a physician can often lead to early treatment of preventable causes. Also, because hair loss can signify other serious illness, a complete medical evaluation is indicated. Finally, treatment is available to slow down many progressive causes of hair loss, so early treatment may slow down further loss."
Dr. Andrea Lynn Cambio, a dermatologist based in New York City, agrees. She believes that hair loss in women is a broad topic, and a woman's general health must always be considered in classifying her type of hair loss. A thorough medical history should be one of the first steps performed and should include any medications, surgeries, family history, psychosocial history and more.
"A physical examination of the scalp, hair and nails is obtained, and a "hair pull" test is often performed," says Dr. Cambio. "Sometimes a blood test is necessary to pinpoint the diagnosis. A culture or scalp biopsy can also aid in formulating a diagnosis. Usually, a thorough history and an inspection of the scalp is enough to generate the etiology of hair loss."
Another interesting cause of hair loss in women is the constant wearing of tight hair styles such as pony tails. The condition is called traction alopecia and is treatable in its early stages.
Many of the hair loss causes can either be cured or slowed with medication or lifestyle modification. The secret lies in seeing a qualified dermatologist when you first notice your hair thinning.