Hair loss is multifactorial and, therefore, there are various causes that lead to hair loss such as diseases or side effects of some medical treatments. Below we identify the most common diseases that cause hair loss, as well as the compatibility of each with hair transplantation.
REVIEWED BY MEDICAL COMMITTEE
There are several diseases that can lead to hair loss. While some affect the hair follicles directly, others influence the hair growth cycle. Below we list the most common diseases that cause hair loss.
Diabetes, both type 1 and type 2, can trigger hair loss. In these cases, it is usually due to poor circulation that prevents nutrients from reaching the follicles correctly, weakening them and promoting hair loss. It can also be due to hormonal imbalances and oxidative stress.
Hair loss caused by diabetes is usually reversible once the underlying cause has been resolved, as in most cases it is a case of telogen effluvium. As for compatibility with hair transplants, it is possible to perform them on patients with diabetes, subject to medical supervision and an assessment of their health status.
Anemia, especially iron deficiency anemia, causes hair loss due to a lack of iron in the body. Iron is an essential mineral for oxygenation and proper functioning of hair follicles. A deficiency of iron weakens hair, causing it to fall out.
In these cases, hair loss is resolved by treating the anemia and ensuring adequate iron levels. In principle, a hair transplant is completely viable, although the iron deficiency must be resolved first.
Lupus is an autoimmune disease that can inflame the scalp, causing hair loss. In some cases, alopecia caused by lupus is self-reversible, while in others, scar tissue forms on the scalp, preventing hair from growing back.
If hair loss is temporary and treated appropriately, the hair will grow back. Whereas in cases where scar tissue has formed, hair transplantation may not be viable.
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss. In many cases, the hair grows back, but in others, alopecia can progress and cause scar tissue.
Hair transplantation is not recommended for patients with active alopecia areata, as the disease may continue to affect the transplanted follicles. It is recommended to treat the condition with medical therapies before considering a hair transplant.
In addition to illnesses, some medical treatments can cause hair loss as a side effect. Among the most well-known are:
Chemotherapy: affects cell division and stops hair growth.
Radiotherapy: can damage hair follicles temporarily or permanently.
Blood pressure medications, antidepressants and blood thinners: They can alter the hair growth cycle and cause hair loss.
In most of these cases, hair loss is reversible once the treatment has finished. However, if hair loss becomes permanent, hair transplantation may be an option to be considered with a specialist. In any case, a medical diagnosis by a specialist is essential in the event of unusual hair loss or loss of density.
En Hospital Capilar We are experts in hair medicine and surgery. We have effective treatments to combat hair loss and baldness. Do you want to get your hair back? Request a FREE medical assessment and put yourself in the hands of professionals.