Most women think of moods swings and hot flashes when it comes to menopause, but hair thinning and hair loss is also an unpleasant symptom of menopause. The psychological impact of thinning hair can be extremely detrimental. Approximately 40 percent of menopausal women experience some form of hair thinning, and this rate is about the same as men. There are many forms of effective hair loss treatments for women, and those entering menopause should seek treatment and know the early hair loss warning signs.
Warning signs of hair loss:
Women often miss the earlier indicators of hair loss, because females often have hair thinning over a wide area of the scalp. Male pattern baldness usually follows a predictable hair loss pattern,and it is more noticeable. Early signs of menopausal hair thinning are excessive hair loss when brushing hair or showering, a smaller ponytail, and a wider part line.
Hair thinning before and after childbirth and during or after menopause is attributed to hormonal changes and imbalances. Hormone replacement therapy can relieve some symptoms of menopause, but hormone replacement alone does not usually help with hair loss, and can sometimes make thing worse.
Role of hormones:
High levels of female hormones during pregnancy leave women with thick, shiny hair. Unfortunately, declining hormone levels during menopause and the increasing levels of androgens (male hormones) contribute to the failure of hair follicles. These two factors leave progressively weaker hair and, depending on genetic risk, no hair at all.
Other contributing factors:
Although reduced hormonal levels contribute to hair loss, other factors need to be considered. These risks include stress level, genetic predisposition and other hormonal imbalances. Diagnostic tests and a detailed medical history is obtained as part of a hair loss evaluation.
Hair loss Is a treatable:
Lifestyle changes and medical treatments can help prevent further hair loss and encourage new hair growth. The best strategy is to use a multiple therapy approach and continues follow ups to make sure it is working.
If you're concerned with hair loss, it is vital that you speak with your primary care doctor and a hair restoration specialist. Your primary care physician and experienced hair restoration specialist can offer the most effective treatment options, including the latest available products and treatments.
