What are the reasons for hair shedding?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 18 years old. I am worried about my hair. I always see hairs on my pillow, and I always lose two to three hairs whenever I run my hand through my hair. I lose about 20 hairs in a shower. Am I experiencing hair loss, or is it normal?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq, and thank you for choosing us as your provider for health care.

I have gone through all your details and appreciate your concern.

Hair fall can cause a great amount of stress, which is normal. I would like you to understand that a daily hair fall count of around 100 is normal, and this number can also vary. On the days we wash our hair, there will be more strands that fall, which is normal. There are many factors that can influence your hair fall count, such as:

Physical or mental stress - for example, if you have been sick in the past three months, have recently taken exams, or experienced a recent change in location or job.
Deficiencies - especially low hemoglobin, low vitamin D, or B12 deficiency.
Metabolic conditions - such as thyroid issues.
If there is a pattern in your hair loss - like frontal or from the top of the head - it could be androgenetic.
Seasonal factors - more hair fall during the rainy season.
Any scalp condition - like dandruff.

If you are experiencing excessive hair fall, you may notice a large amount of strands on your pillow, in your home, or in your comb, even if you wear a headband. This indicates that you are having active hair fall, which requires evaluation and treatment.

I hope this clarifies your concern.

Thank you.