Common Causes of Hair Fall

Hair fall is one of the most common hair concerns. Because it can have many different causes, the right response depends on what is behind it.

Possible causes

• Nutrition — diets low in protein, iron or other nutrients
• Stress — physical or emotional stress can trigger temporary shedding
• Hormones — including changes after childbirth, around menopause, or thyroid conditions
• Genetics — hereditary hair thinning
• Illness — high fever or other illness can be followed by shedding
• Medications — some medicines list hair loss as a possible effect
• Scalp conditions — such as dandruff or inflammation
• Hair-care practices — heat, chemicals and tight styles that cause breakage

What you can do

• Eat a balanced diet and manage stress.
• Handle hair gently and reduce heat styling.
• Keep scalp and hair clean and nourished.
• Be patient — hair changes slowly.

When to see a doctor

Consult a doctor or dermatologist for sudden, severe or persistent hair loss, patchy bald spots, or hair loss with other symptoms. Do not stop a prescribed medicine because of hair fall without speaking to your doctor first.