Hair Loss in Women: A Devastating Experience

Author: Fernanda B.Sc, Pharm, M.H

 

Recently I went through this emotionally traumatizing experience where I began to lose my hair. To some this might sound and vain, although any women who has gone through a large degree of hair loss sympathises with the grieving.

I’ve always had dark thick curly hair with a lot of body – too much body.  Hair Stylists always spoke highly about my hair. Secretly I wished for the hair I didn’t have which is silky straight blond hair. However, when I looked about and saw my hair on the floor, instead of being attached to my head, I surely appreciated what I was losing.  At the time, anywhere I went, I left a trail of hair in my path. When I washed my hair large amounts of hair would come out. When I brushed my hair, after a few strokes, the brush would literally vanish in all the hair enveloping it. I felt so absolutely vulnerable that I cried much of the time. When I pulled my hair up in a ponytail and its thickness was a fraction of what it used to be I then realized I had to take some drastic measures.

 
My first move was to talk with my Physician, There are lots of medical conditions that cause hair loss such as Cushings, hypothyroidism, diabetes and polycystic ovaries, etc. I agreed to a variety of tests and they all came back negative.  Although I was pleased to know I was in great health, it did nothing to calm my anxiety about the hair loss.  Now I was convinced I had been cruelly blessed with the curse of baldness which runs all through my Father’s family.  This catapulted me into a heavier depression.

 
My next step was to peruse the internet looking for solutions.  The internet was filled with all kinds of miracle advice for hair loss and baldness. I was concerned at how frantic I became to try something, anything, that would cease this hair loss. Particularly appealing were all of those hair transplant advertisements offering a permanent head of hair. But none of these ads provided an explanation.  Why was my hair falling out so dramatically?

 
I did find a appropriate solution. On the internet I discovered a medical clinic with a dermatologist who specifically works with hair conditions. I contacted the clinic and was notified I had to have a referral from my doctor with the outcome of test results to deny other medical conditions. Once I met with my doctor and the outcome of the tests were delivered we made an appointment. I met with the specialist and he did a thorough check of my scalp and my medical history. After speaking to me for 30 minutes he knew the cause of my shedding. I don’t bring to mind his name but he will always be “GOLDDOC”

 
Previously that year I had had pneumonia which was very stressful to my body.  Mother Nature being what she is, made a decision my body needed all the nourishment possible and nourishing my hair was not necessary.  “GOLDDOC” in his welcomed wisdom discussed with me that the depravation of my lovely locks of hair would be short-lived. True to his word my hair ceased falling out after another five or six weeks.

Then I travelled through the reverse experience. No hair fallout at all, not even the usual loss of 100-200 hairs daily.  This remainded for six months or so.  Now I have all my hair back, and I sure am thankful for it.

If any woman is going through hair loss, please do what I did. See your doctor and get the suggested tests done to eliminate underlying medical conditions.  If these turn out negative, locate a dermatologist who is professionally known for work with hair loss.  He/she will provide information and suggestions that allow you to make a better choice.  Watch for my next blog Hair loss in women; Sensible Information.