Genetic hair loss is a condition that many men have to deal with, but women can experience genetic hair loss as well. For women it can be a much more harrowing experience, since many women see their hair as their crowning glory. The exact genetic cause and inheritance pattern is still unknown, since there are so many other factors that contribute to the condition. However, it is certain that when it runs in your family, you are much more likely to develop this condition.
Description
Alopecia is the medical term for genetic hair loss. In women, it is characterized by thinning hair over the entire head. It does not cause receding hairlines in women, and rarely causes complete baldness as it does in men. The hair loss in the case of alopecia is permanent.
Causes and Genetics
Androgens, are hormones responsible for hair growth. Genetic hair loss is connected to an increased level of these hormones. In the normal hair growth cycle, hair strands grow for up to six years, rest for a few months, and then fall out. Then the cycle repeats itself. When the androgen level increases, it causes the hair growth process to speed up, and causes hair follicles to become thin and short. It also takes longer for new hair to replace the lost hair.
The AR gene is responsible for production of androgen receptors, proteins that help the body respond properly to androgens. For this reason, the AR gene is believed to be directly connected with genetic hair loss. However, researchers are still unsure how genetic variations in the AR gene increase the likelihood of hair loss.
Diagnosis
To diagnose genetic hair loss in women, it is necessary to first rule out any other possible causes of hair loss. Some things that can cause hair loss in women are, medication, vitamin deficiency, poor nutrition, some skin diseases, thyroid problems and other hormonal problems. You should see your doctor to ensure that your hair loss is not being caused by something other than genetics. It is very important that you visit your physician, since unusual hair loss can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition.
Treatment
While there is no cure for genetic hair loss, there are treatments that can slow or hide it. There are over-the-counter medications available, such as Minoxidil. You may also talk to your doctor about prescription medications. Some other options are hair transplants and scalp reductions. If treatment does not work, or you would like to avoid medication, you may want to consider wearing a wig.
When you notice the beginnings of hair loss, you might want to cut your hair short. This may make it easier to deal with the hair loss as it progresses. If you find it especially difficult to cope with the change in your appearance, you might find it helpful to go to a support group. It may be encouraging to talk with other people facing the same challenge as you, and you may learn new ways of coping.
Inheritance Pattern
The way that hair loss is inherited is still unclear because of the many factors that may be involved, such as hormones and aging. However, it is clear that if you have a close relative with this problem, you have a much higher likelihood of developing the condition yourself.
Tags: hair loss, genetic hair loss, causes hair, genetic hair, hair growth, deal with