What Is Normal Hair Loss?
One of the most common questions asked of Dr. Raymond Konior at Chicago Hair Institute is “How much hair loss is normal?” Most people realize that some hair loss is natural, but don’t know where to draw the line between acceptable, everyday hair loss and hair loss that should be cause for concern. Dr. Konior is only too happy to help his patients understand the difference between abnormal hair loss rate and normal hair loss rate at his Chicago, IL hair loss clinic. If they are suffering from the former, he will explain their options for hair restoration to them.
Are you concerned about the rate at which you are losing hair? If so, please contact Chicago Hair Institute today to schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Raymond Konior.
What Constitutes Normal Hair Loss?
It is normal for the average person to shed anywhere from 50 to 100 hairs a day. At any given time, roughly 85 percent of the hair follicles on a person’s scalp will be actively growing hairs while 15 percent of the hair follicles will be resting. The resting phase lasts for about four months before the follicle enters its next growth phase, which lasts for about four years.
This is why you should not necessarily worry if you find hair in your comb or brush every day. It’s perfectly natural to lose up to 100 hairs every day.
Is All Hair Loss in Excess Of 100 Hairs a Day Permanent?
If losing up to 100 hairs a day is normal, then is hair loss of more than 100 hairs a day a sign of permanent, irreversible hair loss? Not necessarily. A condition called telogen effluvium is marked by temporary excessive shedding of hair due to such circumstances as:
- Recent extreme weight loss (generally more than 20 pounds)
- Childbirth
- Illness
- Stress
- Surgery
- Consumption of certain medications
It is important to emphasize once again that the excessive hair shedding associated with telogen effluvium is temporary, although it can be long lasting. As the body adjusts to the circumstance to which it must become accustomed, or the stress to which it has been exposed subsides, the excessive shedding will cease, and hair will regrow.
Proper Diagnosis Is Essential
If you are losing more than 100 hairs a day, it is important that you seek timely diagnosis of your condition. Dr. Konior can identify your condition, distinguishing between telogen effluvium and hair loss. Timely diagnosis is essential because hair loss is most effectively treated with medication in its earliest stages. It may be possible to postpone surgical hair restoration for years if medical therapy is begun as soon as hair loss is detected and properly diagnosed. On the other hand, if telogen effluvium is diagnosed, you will be able to eliminate the stress of worrying about permanent hair loss from your life, which can also help improve your condition.
Find Out Whether You Are Experiencing Normal Hair Loss
To find out whether you are experiencing normal or abnormal hair loss, please contact Chicago Hair Institute today.
