BASIC INFORMATION
DESCRIPTION
Gradual, painless hair loss that occurs in a distinctive
pattern as a person ages. The earlier the hair loss begins,
the greater the eventual loss. Some persons have short
periods of intense hair loss, followed by long, stable
periods. In men, hair loss appears as early as the 20's; in
women, rarely appears before the 50's.
FREQUENT SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
- In men, hair thins on top of the head and recedes in
the temple and front areas.
- In women, hair loss usually occurs only on top of the
head.
- In both sexes, some diffuse loss may also occur.
CAUSES
- Genetic factors.
- Hormonal factors. Male hormones are an important
factor in balding. Men castrated at a young age don't
develop pattern baldness regardless of genetic factors
unless they receive supplemental testosterone (a male
hormone). Correspondingly, estrogen (a female hormone)
may be protective in women, because hair loss
rarely begins before menopause.
RISK INCREASES WITH
Family history of pattern baldness. Hair loss that occurs
after illness, pregnancy or as an adverse reaction to
drugs is a different form of baldness.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES
The drug minoxidil has been shown to slow or reverse
baldness to some degree in some men. It is expensive
(see Medications). Other medical treatments are undergoing
study.
EXPECTED OUTCOMES
- Incurable at present.
- Use of a hairpiece or hair transplant is acceptable to
some and a topical prescription medication may help
others.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
No medical complications, but baldness can cause emotional
distress.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
- Don't use medicated shampoos and ointments. They
are useless.
- If you cannot accept balding as part of aging, there
are 3 options: Wearing a toupee, wig or other hair substitute;
a hair-transplant operation; or topical medication.
Hair transplant surgery has improved but may have
complications, so be sure to seek information about the
advantages and disadvantages before undergoing the
procedure.
MEDICATIONS
Medicine is not necessary for this disorder. A non-prescription
drug, minoxidil, seems to stimulate hair
growth in 25-50% of patients, but effectiveness is highly
variable and long-term benefits are still unknown.
Minoxidil is expensive and if it helps you, you need to
continue applications indefinitely to sustain improvement.
ACTIVITY
No restrictions.
DIET
No special diet.
NOTIFY YOUR PHYSICIAN IF
You want a medical referral for hair transplantation.
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