Hair loss is one of the most common problems that affect millions of people across the world. Known medically as alopecia, it is a major cause of concern for many, especially because of its cosmetic implications. However, unusual and excessive hair loss can also be a symptom of several serious underlying conditions.
Though men suffer more from hair loss, it can affect women and children too. It can be gradual and abrupt, patchy or diffuse. Sometimes it is limited to the scalp, but it can also affect the whole body. The most common cause of hair loss is a hereditary condition called male and female pattern baldness.

Contact your doctor if :
Hair loss occurs along with weight gain, muscle weakness, intolerance to cold temperatures or fatigue. If you have any pain or itching with hair loss or there are bald spots on your beard or eyebrows.
Your hair loss follows any unusual pattern, losing hair rapidly at an early age. The skin on your scalp starts appearing red and scaly.
Hair loss is accompanied by an abnormal menstrual cycle or if you are a woman and have male pattern baldness.

Some common patterns of hair loss:
Male and female patterns baldness. It manifests as gradual thinning on top of head. Affecting both men and women, this is the most common type of hair loss. While men tend to develop to develop bald patches, women usually retain their hairline.
In this condition called alopecia areata, smooth bald spots are seen predominantly in the scalp, but it could also affect beards or eyebrows. It is caused when the body's immune system attacks hair follicles.

Prevention and Home care:
Follow a proper hair care regime. Practice proper hair brushing using a moderately stiff, natural bristle brush. Always keep your scalp clean, eat a nutritionally balanced diet, avoid stress.