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Suggest Treatment For Severe Hair Loss

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Posted on Mon, 14 Nov 2016
Question: I have experienced sudden hair loss. it comes out everyday in handfuls. I am 70 years old so this
is upsetting.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
different possible causes, treatment is available to help

Detailed Answer:
Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic

It is understandable to be upset

There are different causes of hair loss in women.

(1) the most common is female pattern hair loss.
This is hair loss that mainly involves the crown of the head, the front part is usually spared.

There is a test called the hair pull test that is done to determine if this condition is likely to be present. It is done in the front and back part of the scalp.
Some dermatologist may also do a biopsy of the scalp.

There are treatment options available for this condition such as(1) topical minoxidil, 2% and 5%
(2) medications such as latantoprost, bimatoprost which are commonly used for glaucoma but have been found to stimulate hair growth
(3)spironolactone
(4)cyproterone acetate

(2)Andorgenetic alopecia is another cause of hair loss, where you would notice hair loss all over the head. It starts gradually and there is increased shedding.
It is genetically determined

In this case, blood tests may be done

This can also be treated with minoxidil. Another option is a medication called spironolactone

It would be best to see a dermatologist for assessment and treatment. He or she would prescribe medication for you which may be one of the above

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions
Note: Hope the answers resolves your concerns, however for further guidance of skin related queries consult our Dermatologist.Click here to book a consultation

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Severe Hair Loss

Brief Answer: different possible causes, treatment is available to help Detailed Answer: Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic It is understandable to be upset There are different causes of hair loss in women. (1) the most common is female pattern hair loss. This is hair loss that mainly involves the crown of the head, the front part is usually spared. There is a test called the hair pull test that is done to determine if this condition is likely to be present. It is done in the front and back part of the scalp. Some dermatologist may also do a biopsy of the scalp. There are treatment options available for this condition such as(1) topical minoxidil, 2% and 5% (2) medications such as latantoprost, bimatoprost which are commonly used for glaucoma but have been found to stimulate hair growth (3)spironolactone (4)cyproterone acetate (2)Andorgenetic alopecia is another cause of hair loss, where you would notice hair loss all over the head. It starts gradually and there is increased shedding. It is genetically determined In this case, blood tests may be done This can also be treated with minoxidil. Another option is a medication called spironolactone It would be best to see a dermatologist for assessment and treatment. He or she would prescribe medication for you which may be one of the above I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions