HAIR LOSS
The
hair on our heads represents a distinctive part of our overall
appearance and self-image. It's functional importance is of
questionable significance, but it's aesthetic value is undeniable.
The color, thickness, texture, length, and style and in some
instances the absence of our hair help distinguish us from
those around us and add variety to our daily "wardrobe". The
partial or complete loss of hair is known as baldness or alopecia.
INCIDENCE
More
than 50 million American men and 20 million women are losing
their hair and experiencing some degree of baldness. By age
30 approximately one-fourth of men begin to show signs of
baldness and by age 60 about two-thirds are either bald or
balding.
CAUSES
A
thorough evaluation of the cause of hair loss should include
a visit to a dermatologist or endocrinologist. Sudden, rapid
hair loss may be related to high fever, severe infection,
radiation therapy, stress, weight loss, dietary deficiencies,
abnormalities of the thyroid gland, childbirth, and some medications.
More commonly hair loss is gradual and may follow a pattern
referred to as male or female-pattern baldness.Genetics are
responsible for the majority of baldness.
PREVENTION
AND TREATMENT
In
situations where the hair loss is related to such factors
as diet, medications, stress, illness, etc. correction of
the underlying problem will often provide the solution for
the hair loss. However in the majority of cases in which genetics
is the culprit and male or female-pattern baldness is developing
two medications are currently on the market.
Propecia
(finasteride) is a tablet taken by mouth once/day. It inhibits
an enzyme that converts the male hormone, testosterone, into
dihydro-testosterone, which is the substance that triggers
hair loss. A possible side effect in a small percentage of
men is impotence. Pregnant women or those with a potential
for pregnancy should avoid this drug-even touching it may
cause abnormalities in a developing fetus. This medication
is available by prescription only and the cost is about $50./mo.
Rogaine(minoxidil)
causes hair follicles to lengthen their growth cycle. It is
applied topically twice/day. It can be used by both men and
women and should be started at the first sign of hair loss.
If effectiveness is demonstrated, continued use is required
or else hair loss will recur. This drug is available over-the-counter
and costs about $25./mo. As many people have discovered, even
the latest medications fail to halt progressive hair loss
and baldness. Some may opt for wigs, hair weaves, dyes, hats
and even hair transplants to disguise or change their appearance.
For others an extra dab of sunscreen on their glistening pate
and adopting a "bald is beautiful" attitude is all that's
needed.
LINKS
http://www.thebaldman.com/
http://www.bald.com/
