Hair loss or alopecia is a medical condition in which an individual loses hair. It is a common cause of concern for both men and women. Hair loss in both men and women has serious consequences both emotionally and socially. A normal man has about 1,00,000-1,50,000 strands of hair and it is common to lose about 50-100 strands every day. However, if bald patches appear on your head, you may be suffering from hair loss. Hair loss can affect any area of the body and can cause complete baldness, the appearance of bald patches, or thinning of hair.

Causes of hair loss
Hair loss can be triggered by several factors which could be hormonal, environmental, dietary or genetic. Hair loss is common in men and women who are in their 30s or 40s.

• Genetic factors
  Genetics or a hereditary factor is the cause for hair loss in a majority of the cases. According to data, it is estimated that 80 million citizens suffer from hereditary hair loss. Genes obtained from both parents will affect alopecia and the predisposition of an individual to develop baldness.
• Medications
  Medications used in the treatment of cancer, contraceptive pills, prescription drugs for managing hypertension, and blood thinners can cause hair loss.
• Injuries
  Temporary hair loss can be triggered by injuries, burns, and exposure to X-rays. If a scar has formed at an injured site, hair will not grow there. However, if the scar is not formed, hair will re-grow once the wound heals naturally.
• Hormonal imbalance
  It has been observed that higher levels of androgen are linked to hair loss. Higher levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can trigger hair loss. DHT is synthesized from testosterone and is more potent than testosterone. The conversion process of testosterone to DHT can cause hair thinning. High levels of insulin can also trigger the release of testosterone. Insulin in our body is released after a meal or the consumption of foods with a high glycemic index. In women, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is also linked with hair loss. Thyroid imbalance can also cause hair loss.
• Stress
  It can lead to hormonal imbalance and could be a trigger for hair loss.
• Fungal infections
  Infections caused by ringworms can cause hair loss.
• Nutrient deficiency and medical conditions
  A chronic nutrient deficiency such as iron deficiency, anemia and diabetes can cause hair loss. A low intake of protein in the diet and calorie-restriction has also been linked to hair loss.
• Autoimmune disorders
  Alopecia areata is an auto-immune disorder in which the immune system attacks the hair follicles.
• Cosmetic procedures
  Certain chemicals present in shampoos, bleach, and dyes can cause temporary hair loss by causing hair thinning.

Hair loss can have a severe psychological impact on an individual. In most of the cases (except genetic), hair loss can be reversed by a proper diet and avoiding the use of harsh chemicals. One can consult a medical expert in case the problem persists for a prolonged period.