Hair loss in men is common and can affect the entire body or just your scalp. It can be a temporary or permanent condition caused by medical conditions, hormonal changes, or many other conditions. Continue reading to learn more about the possible causes and symptoms of hair loss in men.
Causes of Hair Loss in Men
What causes hair loss for men? Most people lose anywhere between 50 and 100 hair each day. This is not obvious, however. Hair loss, on the other hand, is when new hair is not restored following the hair that has come out.
Any of the following can cause hair loss in men:
Hereditary
Is male hair loss genetic? Androgenic alopecia is the most common cause of hair loss in men and is related to a genetic condition. It typically occurs over time but in foreseeable patterns. For example, men may have bald spots or a receding hairline.
Medical Conditions
Many medical conditions, such as alopecia, can cause hair loss in men. Alopecia is an immune system-related condition that can result in scalp infections and patchy hair loss.
Supplements/Medications
Hair loss can also be the result of taking certain medications or supplements, including those for depression, heart problems, high blood pressure, gout, cancer, and arthritis.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy to the head may also cause hair loss. Over time, the hair that does grow back will not be the same as it was previously.
Stress
Stress can cause many changes in the body, hair loss being one of them. If you are in a constant state of stress, it could lead to temporary hair loss.
Hair Treatments
Not only hair treatments, but hairstyles such as braids or cornrows, which pull your hair tightly, can cause hair loss. Certain hair treatments can also cause your hair to fall out.
Symptoms of Hair Loss
Symptoms of hair loss in men include:
- Hair thinning on top of the head: This is the most common type of hair loss that can impact anyone as they age. For men, you may notice that your hair starts to recede near your forehead on the hairline.
- Bald spots: Bald spots may either be patchy or circular. This may occur on the head, eyebrows, or beard. You may also have itchy or painful skin right before your hair comes out.
- Sudden loss of hair: Sudden changes to you, whether they are emotional or physical, can trigger sudden hair loss. You may notice a handful of hair that may fall out upon washing or combing your hair. However, this type of hair loss is temporary.
- Full-body hair loss: Certain conditions or medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, can cause hair loss throughout your entire body. The good news is that it will eventually grow back.
- Scaling and patches: If you notice scaling or patches, it is a sign of ringworm. Hair loss from ringworm may accompany many other symptoms, such as swelling, redness, and oozing.