When To Call a Doctor

Call your doctor if:

• Your hair loss is sudden, rather than gradual.
• You notice hair shedding in large amounts after combing or brushing, or if your hair becomes thinner or falls out.
• You are concerned that a medicine may be causing your hair loss.
• You have a rash, scaliness, or any change in the skin on your scalp with hair loss.
• You see signs of bacterial infection on your scalp, such as:
  • Increased pain.
  • Swelling, redness, tenderness, or heat.
  • Red streaks extending from the area.
  • Discharge of pus.
  • Fever of 100°F (37.8°C) or higher with no other cause.
• Your hair is gradually thinning and balding, and you want to discuss treatment options with your doctor.

Watchful Waiting

Watchful waiting is a period of time during which you and your doctor observe your symptoms or condition without using medical treatment. Watchful waiting may be appropriate if your hair loss is gradual and is similar to the pattern of hair loss seen in your parents or brothers or sisters. But if your gradual hair loss bothers you, your doctor may be able to slow or reverse it. If clumps of hair fall out, your hair loss may be caused by a disease, and it is important to contact your doctor.

Hair loss caused by alopecia areata often reverses on its own. Watchful waiting is an option after you have been diagnosed with this condition.

Who To See

Health professionals who can give you advice and treatment on hair loss include:

• Family medicine doctors.
• Internists.
• Physician assistants.
• Nurse practitioners.
• Dermatologists.

Hair transplant surgery is usually done by:

• Dermatologists.
• Plastic surgeons.

To prepare for your appointment, see the topic Making the Most of Your Appointment.