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and Health
Do you have thinning hair, receding hairline, or bald patches on your head? Chances are you are suffering from a common condition known as Androgenetic Alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness. Broken down into its components, androgen means a male sex hormone and “genetic” refers to something inherited. Alopecia translates to “baldness”. The combination of these three words results in a condition that is inherited and is caused by higher levels of a male hormone known as Dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
What Causes Male Pattern Baldness?
Males are more prone to androgenetic alopecia due to the effect of DHT on their hair follicles. DHT is produced in the prostate and adrenal glands, and it binds to receptors on the hair follicles and causes them to miniaturize, leading to a decrease in hair growth over time. As the follicles become smaller, the hairs become shorter and thinner, and eventually they stop growing until baldness occurs.
Is Baldness Reversible?
Unfortunately, once baldness has set in, it is currently not really reversible. However, with the right treatment, it’s possible to slow down or prevent further hair loss and to maintain the existing hair on your scalp. There are a number of treatments available, and the most common are minoxidil and finasteride. Minoxidil is a topical treatment which can help to slow down or prevent further hair loss, while finasteride is a pill which works by blocking DHT, the hormone that is responsible for male pattern baldness.
MEDICAL COMPLICATIONS OF AGA
It is important to note that in addition to the cosmetic implications of male pattern baldness, there can be some medical complications as well. One of these is a medical condition called Hypogonadism, which is characterized by a deficiency of androgenic hormones, including testosterone. This can lead to lowered sex drive, low libido, and erectile dysfunction, as well as a decrease in muscle mass. Other complications include an increased risk of prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and metabolic syndrome.
Summary
Androgenetic alopecia, also known as male pattern baldness, is a very common hair loss condition that is caused by higher levels of the male sex hormone, DHT. There is currently no cure for baldness, but treatments such as minoxidil and finasteride can help to slow down or prevent further hair loss. It’s important to note that male pattern baldness can have medical implications as well, such as hypogonadism and an increased risk of prostate cancer.
