Hair and Nail Disorders 

Hair disorders 

The following are particularly common:   

• Hair loss
• Increased hair growth 

Irreversible forms of hair loss (e.g. Lupus erythematosus) also occur as part of other disorders. In all cases, a precise diagnosis of the cause is essential for successful treatment.   

Hair loss 

People normally lose 50 to 100 hairs per day. This is not usually noticeable since new hairs grow at the same time. Hair loss occurs when new hair does not replace the hair that has fallen out. 

Hair loss typically occurs together with one or more of the following factors: 

• Family history (hereditary)

The most common cause of hair loss is a hereditary disease which occurs with age. This is known as androgenetic alopecia, male hair loss and female hair loss. It usually occurs gradually and in predictable patterns - receding hairline and bald patches in men and thinning hair along the scalp in women.

• Hormonal changes and disorders

A number of conditions can lead to permanent or temporary hair loss, including hormonal changes caused by pregnancy, birth, menopause and thyroid problems.

• Drugs and diet

Hair loss can occur as a side effect of certain drugs such as those used to treat cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, gout and high blood pressure.

• A very stressful phase of life

Many people suffer generalised hair loss several months after a physical or emotional shock. This type of hair loss is temporary.

• Hairstyling and treatments

Excessive hairstyling or perms which pull the hair tight such as plaits can lead to a form of hair loss known as traction alopecia. Hair treatments using oil and perms can also lead to hair loss. Hair loss can be permanent in case of scarring.