Truth Behind Hair Loss and Genetics

Layman Perspective

For an ordinary layperson, hair loss means thinning and signs of baldness. The argument is basically, someone in the family, like father or mother, had it so I have it. The scalp begins to show and hairline starts receding on the forehead, crown, and sides. In some patients, The hair quality and quantity change in a noticeable manner. The thickness, length, density and feel decline. They also lead to fears of complete baldness.

1. Both men and women are susceptible to hair weakening and thinning.
2. Superficial knowledge is enough for patients to identify split ends.
3. They can also look in the mirror for dryness and frizzy quality of hair.
4. The once lush, flowing hair stops growing and causes much anxiety.

Expert Knowledge

Yes, There is some truth in the above mentioned laymen’s perspective. But a surgeon or specialist does not go by half knowledge or opinion. He has to rely on medical data or evidence after thorough check up. He also starts hair treatment only after establishing disorder, damage or defect.

Let us see what the specialists know about hair loss and genes:-

• Biological factors have an impact on the quality and quantity of hair. They include protein deficiency, stress, anaemia, and chronic disorders(like low thyroid).
• Hair loss is a very general term that does not signify anything. Doctors can tell apart male pattern baldness, ophiasis, anagen or telogen effluvium.
• Establishing the causes is neither easy nor straightforward. Scalp diseases, follicle infection, trichotillomania can however be identified.
• The clinical exam is key for diagnosing various types of alopecia. The different cases are androgenetic, areata, totalis, universalis, traction and chignon alopecia.
• In popular culture, Words like heredity and genetics are used casually. But there is a difference between genetic mutations and inherited diseases.
• Genetic researchers study genome in a holistic fashion. Medical doctors focus on hereditary disorders to treat patients(clinical genetics).
• Genes can determine eye or skin color, and affect metabolism. They also cause nerve, heart, eye, and dermatological conditions.
  For hair loss, Genetics are a key indicator and the doctor is the best judge. Genes can lead to connective tissue disorders and thereby hair loss.
• Patients who have psychological problems also lose large amounts of hair. During consultations, Doctors can diagnose mental disorders related to hair loss.
• Sex hormones and gene combinations also cause M-patterned baldness. The surgically trained doctor is in a best position to confirm this symptom.