Guide to Women's Hair Loss

Welcome to the only guide created by women suffering from hair loss, for women.

Women's Guide Navigation Introduction Types of Women's hair loss Gathering Information

Part 3 - Gathering and Preparing Information

It is extremely important to find a qualified physician to treat hair loss. A dermatologist is usually a good doctor to start with, as they specialize in treating skin diseases, including problems associated with hair and hair loss. A good starting place for finding a board certified dermatologist is through the American Academy of Dermatology’s website. Unfortunately, if your insurance carrier is enrolled in an HMO, you may not have the freedom in choosing a dermatologist. You will have take charge with your HMO to work with you, and coming in armed with all the appropriate information is the key to making the best of your situation.

As mentioned, preparing for your doctor’s visit can help you receive a more accurate diagnosis. This preparation includes a blood test and writing down or being aware of your hair loss and medical history by answering these questions:

-How long have you been losing your hair and when did it start?
-Is your hair falling out fully intact or is it breaking off?
-Do you have a family history of baldness?
-Or of diabetes, thyroid problems, asthma, arthritis, lupus, vitiligo, anemia, or Addison's disease?
-Are you on any medications, and if so, what are they?
-What does your normal diet consist of?
-Have you experienced sudden weight loss?
-Have you recently given birth, had a hysterectomy or gone through menopause?
-What kind of hair products do you use, and what do you use to style your hair?

Also, bringing in a picture of yourself prior to the hair loss, or some hairs that have recently fallen out may be helpful.

Blood tests are equally as important in accurately diagnosing hair loss. It is absolutely imperative to get these blood tests done:

-Hormone levels (DHEAS, Testosterone, Androstenedione, Prolactin, Follicular Stimulating Hormone, and Leutinizing Hormone)
-Serum Iron, Serum Ferritin, TIBC (Total Iron Binding capacity), Transferrin Saturation
-Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
-VDRL
-Complete Blood Count (CBC)
-T4 Free

In conclusion, treating women's hair loss requires a knowledgeable physician, and the appropriate tests. Even if you are unable to find a qualified dermatologist, you can insist on having the above blood tests done. If an abnormality is found in your levels, any doctor should be able to give you direction on returning them to normal. A simple supplement or the appropriate medications should fix the imbalance, and result in full regrowth of your hair within a year.