If your child is experiencing hair loss learn the causes and take action.
Some of the medical causes:
Tinea capitis: Ring worm. This is a fungal infection that usually shows up on the scalp. Treatment can involve an orqal antifungal and or an antifungal shampoo to decrease shedding of the fungus. This is contagious so make sure that the child does not touch the head or share objects like hats, scarves, pillow cases, combs and brushes with others.
Alopecia Areata: This is thought to be caused by the body’s immune system attacking the hair follicles. Strong corticosteroid ointments or creams may be applied to bald areas in young children. Many have their hair back within a year however, for about 5% of children the disease progresses to alopecia totalis.
Trichotillomania: Hair loss caused by pulling, plucking or twisting or rubbing. The hair is patchy and characterized by broken hairs of varying lengths. May be triggered by stress and therapy may be required.
Telogen Effluvium: A condition caused by sudden or severe stress such as high fever, surgery under general anesthesia, death of a loved one, severe injury or use of certain prescription medicines. There are no conclusive diagnostic tests to diagnos this condition or treatments for it. Sometimes when the condition causing the stress is over full hair growth may return.
Nutritional Deficiency: Less common, but hair loss xcan be a symptom of deficiencies in certain nutrients including Vitamin H, biotin, one of the B complex vitamins. See a doctor.
Endocrine Problems: Can be caused by hypothyroidism a condition where the thyroid is underactive and produces an insufficient amount of the thyroid hormone. Treatment may involve medication.
Get the help and information that you need to help your child and seek professional advice and solutions.
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