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Hair Loss (Alopecia)
Hair loss (alopecia) is thinning or loss of hair from the scalp or body. It has many causes, from pattern baldness to stress, nutritional deficiency and autoimmune conditions.
Causes & risk factors
- Male or female pattern baldness (hereditary)
- Stress or illness (temporary shedding)
- Nutritional deficiencies (iron, vitamin D, protein)
- Thyroid and hormonal problems
- Autoimmune hair loss (alopecia areata)
- Scalp infections or tight hairstyles
Common symptoms
- Gradual thinning on the top of the head
- Receding hairline
- Patchy bald spots
- Excess hair shedding
- Widening hair parting
Tests & diagnosis
- Ferritin / iron studies
- Thyroid function test
- Vitamin D
- CBC
- Scalp examination and pull test
- Scalp biopsy in unclear cases
Treatment & management
- Treating any underlying deficiency or thyroid problem
- Topical or oral medicines for pattern hair loss, as prescribed
- Treatment for autoimmune hair loss
- Gentle hair care and avoiding tight styles
- Hair transplant in selected cases
When to see a doctor urgently
- Sudden or patchy hair loss
- Hair loss with a scaly, itchy or scarring scalp
- Hair loss with tiredness or other symptoms
- Rapidly worsening or widespread loss
Not a diagnosis. MedDroid gives general educational information about hair loss (alopecia). It cannot examine you, diagnose or prescribe — always confirm with a qualified doctor.
Frequently asked questions
Is some daily hair shedding normal?
Yes. Losing around 50 to 100 hairs a day is normal. Concern arises with noticeable thinning, bald patches or a sudden increase in shedding.
Can hair loss be reversed?
It depends on the cause. Loss from deficiency, stress or illness often recovers, while hereditary loss can be slowed but not fully reversed.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.