Q: What causes hair loss in women? I’m 75 and have noticed it in the last two months.
A: Hair loss in women, particularly in a pattern of thinning, can occur for one of several different reasons.
Hypothyroidism can cause thinning of the hair. Another hormonal problem that can lead to this is Cushing’s Syndrome, which is an overproduction of the hormone cortisol. Protein/calorie malnutrition can be a cause, and any illness associated with significant weight loss might do this.
Physical stress, such as major surgery or illness, can cause hair loss. This type usually recovers in time but may take several months.
Other reasons could be a condition affecting the scalp. Psoriasis or fungal infection (tinea capitis) are prime examples. Hair loss can also be a side effect of certain medications, like chemotherapy agents for cancer.
If the cause of the hair loss remains a mystery, then having a primary-care doctor or dermatologist investigate would be a reasonable next step.
— Answer from Dr. Anthony Bray, a family-practice doctor on JustAnswer.
Daily Answer is excerpted from the JustAnswer archives and features information provided by a Expert on JustAnswer.
