Thinning Hair In Women – A Common problem While hair loss in men is a common topic, many people do not realize that thinning hair in women is a growing problem. Some statistics state that as many as two-thirds of women will suffer from some sort of hair loss during their lifetime. Understanding the underlying causes of this growing problem can help determine the best way to treat it. First recognize the impact estrogen has on the body's ability to produce healthy hair. While researchers are not clear on what role estrogen plays, there are indications that treatments, such as those based on birth-control, known to contain estrogen, have a positive impact on balding or thinning hair. Patients should be careful to select a hormone replacement therapy that does not support androgenic activity. One of the most common forms of alopecia in women is Alopecia Areata. Some studies suggest that as many as 2% of the total population suffers from this form of hair loss. Alopecia Areata is an immune disorder and thinning hair in women which sometimes can be attributed to this disorder. It is often treated with immunotherapy. Women can also suffer from female pattern balding, known as Androgenic Alopecia. This type of alopecia is often caused by an underlying medical issue such as polycystic ovarian syndrome. There is some indication that genetics may also play a role in this form of thinning. This type of hair loss can occur as early as age 12 and is often treated with hormone therapy or Minoxidil. Some patients see a negative impact on the overall thickness and health level of their hair during times of stress or during periods of time when they are sick. Overall health seems to play a role in the health and durability of a patients hair. It is interesting to note that many women who suffer from thin hair see a progression in their symptoms over a period of time. The hair may become thin and brittle, causing it to break off. The hair that replaces it may be even thinner.
Over a period of time, the patient may recognize patches of baldness throughout the effected area. Discovering the underlying issue or cause of the thin hair and developing a treatment plan can stop and often reverse thinning hair in women. There are several things that can cause a patients hair to thin. Working with a doctor to determine the underlying cause is the best way to ensure that the problem will be resolved.