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  • Q&A with Australian Health Practitioners

    Why is my 14 year old son losing hair?

    Related Topics
    Alopecia Autism Spectrum Disorder Children's Health
    He was diagnosed with Asperger's 8 months ago and has undergone lots of testing and seen lots of different specialists. I have also changed his diet to Gluten free and dairy free, but only about 80%. Could his hair loss be related to the diet or is it the stress of all that has happened in such a short time frame?
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  • Australia Alopecia Areata Foundation

    The AAAF Committee consists of a group of dedicated individuals who work full-time or have their own business. They contribute their time, knowledge, passion & … View Profile

    Hair loss can ‘just happen’ or it may be linked to some medical conditions or use of medicines. It can be patchy or widespread, and may range from mild to severe.
     
    There are many possible causes of hair loss. Some result in temporary hair loss (known as telogen effluvium), while others may have longer-term effects, such as Alopecia Areata.  To determine if it is Alopecia Areata you should seek clarification from a medical professional. Breaking or damaging the hair shaft has no effect at all on the health of the hair root.

    Some causes of hair loss include:

    • Severe illness, major surgery or high fever, which may lead to a period of excess hair shedding
    • Hormonal changes resulting from thyroid disease, childbirth or use of the birth control pill
    • Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder
    • Medications
    • Nervous habits such as continual hair pulling or scalp rubbing
    • Rough handling – brushing too vigorously, tight rolling of hair curlers
    • Overbleaching, or the use of harsh dyes and chemicals, which may cause split ends
    • Tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp)
    • Certain skin diseases such as lichen planus or lupus.

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