Hair loss, also referred to as alopecia, is a common condition that can occur in both men and women. It usually happens gradually with age and is often attributed to genetics.

However, sudden and unexplained hair loss may be a sign of an underlying health problem, including cancer.

Types of Cancer that Cause Hair Loss

Cancer is a term that includes a group of diseases that cause abnormal cell growth. Hair loss is not usually the first symptom of cancer, but it may develop after treatment starts. Some of the types of cancer that can cause hair loss include:.

Breast Cancer

Chemotherapy is commonly used to treat breast cancer, and one of its side effects is hair loss. Women may experience hair loss on their scalp, eyebrows, eyelashes, and other body parts. However, the extent of hair loss can vary from person to person.

It can be temporary or permanent, depending on the chemotherapy drug used.

Ovarian Cancer

Like breast cancer, ovarian cancer may also be treated with chemotherapy, which can cause hair loss. Other treatments such as surgery or radiation therapy may also lead to alopecia.

Lung Cancer

Some types of lung cancer can also cause hair loss. Chemotherapy is the most common treatment for lung cancer, and it can cause hair loss similarly to treating breast and ovarian cancer.

Balding of the scalp and body can occur, and hair may grow back after treatment ends.

How Does Cancer Treatment Cause Hair Loss?

Cancer treatments, particularly chemotherapy and radiation therapy, impact the overall cell division process. These treatments attack rapidly dividing cells, including cancer cells.

Unfortunately, healthy cells, including hair follicles, are also affected. Chemotherapy and radiation treatment cause hair to fall out because they alter the normal cell division process. Because hair cells divide so quickly, they are among the first cells to be affected.

Treatment Options for Hair Loss Caused by Cancer Treatment

While hair loss may be a necessary step in treating cancer, there are ways to deal with it.

Related Article How hair loss might indicate the presence of cancer

Hair loss may be temporary and return once the treatment ends, but it can have a tremendous impact on a person’s quality of life, self-esteem, and overall well-being. There are various hair restoration options available that can help:.

Wigs

Wigs are an excellent option for women who have experienced hair loss due to chemotherapy or other cancer treatments. Wigs are made using human or synthetic hair and look natural and realistic.

They can be styled and cut to fit a person’s preferences. Some cancer support groups offer free wig programs.

Scalp Cooling Therapy

Scalp cooling therapy is a new option that has been shown to help decrease the severity of hair loss from chemotherapy. The FDA has cleared several scalp cooling systems that are used during chemotherapy.

The scalp cooling system works by cooling the cells of the scalp, which slows down cell division, making it more difficult for chemotherapy to target hair follicle cells. This treatment is not available to all types of cancer patients and is best for those who will be receiving chemotherapy medication that causes hair loss.

Topical Medications

Topical medications can be used to stimulate hair growth. Minoxidil is a medication used to promote hair growth. The medication is applied directly to areas of thinning hair on the scalp and is over-the-counter.

It is not expensive but requires a continued commitment for growth. It is not clear who can benefit from the treatment, but it may be helpful for those who have mild to moderate hair loss.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Consult your doctor if you experience sudden or unexplained hair loss. A doctor will be able to determine if the hair loss is due to a medical condition or a side effect of medication.

Blood tests and other diagnostic tests may be necessary to determine the possible cause of the hair loss. If the hair loss is caused by cancer, prompt just treatment may mean better chances of a full recovery.

Conclusion

While hair loss is a common problem experienced by both men and women, sudden and unexplained hair loss may be a warning of cancer and must be carefully evaluated.

If you experience unexpected hair loss, promptly see a doctor to determine the potential cause. While it may be difficult, it’s important to remember that hair loss is often temporary and new alternatives can help stimulate hair growth.