Diffuse hair loss in men - forms, causes and treatment

Diffuse hair loss, also called diffuse alopecia, is when hair thins not only in typical areas such as the forehead, but all over the head. Most often, those affected notice it because they suddenly find more hair in the shower drain or brush and the scalp shows through more clearly than before.

But how much hair loss is normal?  A loss of up to 100 hairs per day is quite normal - if this benchmark is exceeded, the cause should be investigated. Diffuse hair loss can affect both men and women, and age is not a factor either. The good news is: this form of hair loss can usually be combated well.

• Unbalanced diet: If your body is not sufficiently supplied with important nutrients such as vitamins, trace elements and minerals, it will stop hair growth. You can have an undersupply, such as iron deficiency, determined by your doctor and compensated for by a change in diet or, if necessary, with dietary supplements.
• Stress is a common cause of hair loss. Even positive events and situations can lead to stress, namely when the mind and body are no longer at rest. One consequence of this can be hair loss. Allow yourself regular downtime to replenish your energy stores.
• Healthy sleep is extremely important: it serves both mental and physical regeneration. If you don't sleep enough, you often suffer from symptoms such as poor concentration, fatigue, or even hair loss. If you notice sleep disturbances in yourself, clarify the cause in order to counteract long-term consequences for your health.
• Diseases or poisoning can also damage hair growth, for example skin diseases, a severe flu-like infection, hypothyroidism or, in very rare cases, heavy metal poisoning.
• Likewise, taking medication can be a cause of diffuse hair loss. Read the notes on known side effects in the package insert and talk to your doctor about them if necessary.

While hereditary and age-related hair loss according to the male pattern of progression is classically accompanied by the development of receding hairline and tonsure at the back of the head, in diffuse hair loss the hair falls out on the entire head. This reduces the overall hair density distributed over the head. Usually, diffuse hair loss is due to a specific event and occurs only in phases due to hears with the removal of the cause.

Fortunately, diffuse hair loss can be counteracted. However, to stop hair loss, it is important to know the cause. Because only if you manage to eliminate the cause, your hair growth will also regenerate. If you are unsure what is causing your hair to become thinner and thinner, it is best to consult a doctor. He or she can find out whether malnutrition or a disease is the cause.

But also listen to yourself: Are you often stressed? Then this could also be the reason why you are plagued by temporary hair loss. Take good care of yourself and allow yourself times to relax.

Above all, take the following points to heart:

• Make sure you get enough sleep. If you have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, see a doctor.
• Eat a balanced and healthy diet. Your hair roots need vitamins and other important nutrients to ensure healthy hair growth.
• Avoid stress and regularly balance stressful situations with exercise and relaxation.