Hair loss problems have catapulted from being a cosmetic issue to a medical problem. Research funding is widely available and plenty of information is offered today on the why and how for hair loss. Research into scalp and hair follicle problems has brought some relief for certain hair loss problems. Very often accepting baldness is a serious psychological problem and people are unaware of sources that can help them overcome their predicament.
At the beginning of the first symptom of premature hair loss, it is important to consult with a medical practitioner, who is a specialist in hair loss. With simple tests, certain underlying illnesses can be ruled out. Using the symptoms, medical history and laboratory tests of blood etc the physician can more or less pinpoint the cause of the hair loss.
Common tests include iron levels, thyroid enzymes and function, insulin resistance, hormone levels of progesterone, estrogen and testosterone among others. In addition a complete blood count, liver, kidney and adrenal function tests will be ordered. All these help rule out underlying pathologies and will help the doctor understand each individual problem.
The medical field today is full of specialists for every kind of ailment. A trichologist is a specialist in hair and scalp disorders. The scientific study of hair and scalp is known as trichology. When blood tests have not helped diagnose the hair loss problem, the trichologist will microscopically study the hair root, from hair pulled off over various areas of the scalp.
By evaluating the shape, size and the feel of the root, underlying scalp and hair problems can be exposed. Trichologists can measure the severity and rate of hair loss, in addition to examining the scalp for scaling, inflammation, excessive oiliness and microbial infections. Diet, medication, health and lifestyle will be considered and if the cause is an underlying ailment a specialist will be referred to.
Dermatologists specialize in skin problems, including hair, nails and mucous membranes. Often dermatologists are consulted as the scalp is the skin on the head. A dermatologist will use the medical history, physical examination, scalp biopsy and blood tests to determine the cause of the hair loss.
Natural medicine has made a comeback in recent years and many look to this alternative to solve their hair issues. Some change to natural medicine when allopathic medicine has failed. In natural medicine, the patient is treated as a whole unit rather than just the symptom itself.
Natural medicine includes homeopathy, ayurveda, acupuncture, reflexology and aromatherapy among others. These natural therapies are often used in combination with complementary natural therapies or by themselves. Natural therapies often include changes in diet and lifestyle. Removing certain stress factors can help stress related hair loss. Natural therapy needs long term consistency for the treatment to be effective.
In treating hair loss, it is important to identify the cause for premature hair loss and treat it immediately. Other than genetics, loss of hair due to any physical or medical condition has a definite solution to the problem.