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Exploring the Possible Roots of Hair Loss in Women

By Brian Alexis
Sep 24, 2009
Since the genetic precursors to the female predisposition to hair loss has been widely discussed, it's time to explore the other possible causes for balding. Since not all women have genetics to blame, it's far better to know the other potential causes of hair loss.

To think that genetics is the ultimate cause of hair loss is actually a dangerous assumption, since some serious illness might be behind hair loss. In reality, only a medical doctor would be able to make a fairly accurate medical diagnosis of balding.

1. The Ludwig Classification System

If both doctors and nonprofessionals consult the Norwood Classification System for male pattern baldness, a counterpart system also exists to help women determine their own degree of baldness.

The patterns in the Ludwig system are by no means more reassuring than those in the Norwood system, but at least you and your doctor would be able to make a more accurate comparison.

The Ludwig Classification System only features four distinct hair patterns, as opposed to the seven patterns in the male-focused Norwood system. The first pattern shows a complete head of hair, with no receding hairline.

The second pattern, Pattern I, shows partial thinning across the top of the head. Usually, the scalp is already very visible when this balding pattern is identified either by the patient or the doctor. It's more difficult to see because it's on top of the head.

Type II female balding pattern shows increased hair loss that cuts across the parting line of the hair. This is when the balding transgresses the arc of the top of the head and moves to the sides. In contrast to the male pattern baldness, female balding starts from the top and not near the ears and temples.

2. Hormones And Other Unfortunate Tales

Genetics play a significant role, but not for every female experiencing the signs of baldness. Sometimes, the baldness may be caused by something far more insidious than androgen-related hormonal activities. Baldness may be a sign of an advanced stage of thyroid disease.

Another possible cause of baldness is anemia. Anemia may be caused by a number of situations. Pregnant women often suffer from some hair loss during pregnancy and even after they give birth. This is a concatenation of hormones, the body's adaptive mechanisms and anemia.

Anemia can be offset by ferrous sulfate supplementation. Some pregnant women are given generous amounts of iron a few months before they give birth, to make sure that the anemia is counterbalanced before the delivery of the baby.

3. Anorexia And Bulimia

This is very important, so pay attention to the details. Young girls and adult women sometimes develop eating disorders in the drive to lose weight and attain a specific figure. Two of the most common eating disorders are anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa.

Anorexic and bulimic individuals often look pale, and yes, they lose a lot of hair. If you think someone in your family is suffering from these eating disorders, one clear sign is unexplained hair loss. This means that the calcium and iron levels in the body are dropping dangerously. Consult with a physician immediately.
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