Male pattern baldness, also called androgenic alopecia, is the most common type of hair loss in men. It is estimated that more than 50 percent of all men over the age of 50 will be affected by male pattern baldness to some extent. There are many myths associated with male pattern baldness and for some men the prospect of going bald can be a nightmare. Male pattern baldness is a fact of life for many men, but it does not have to be the source of anxiety.
What is male pattern baldness?
In male-pattern baldness, typically, hair loss at first begins to thin (recede) at the sides (temples). At the same time, the hair usually becomes thin on the top of the head. A bald patch gradually develops in the middle of the scalp. The receding sides and the bald patch on the top (the crown) gradually enlarge and join together, leaving a patch at the front. The patch at the front eventually thins as well. A rim of hair is often left around the back and sides of the scalp. In some men, this rim of hair also thins and goes, leaving a completely bald scalp.
It generally takes 15-25 years to go bald, but it can be quicker. Many men who suffer from male pattern baldness are extremely unhappy with their situation and would do anything to change it. Hair loss affects every aspect of their life. It affects interpersonal relationships as well as their professional life.
What causes male pattern baldness?
One cause of male pattern baldness is genetics or having a family history of baldness. Research has found that male pattern baldness is associated with male sex hormones called androgens. The androgens have many functions, including regulating hair growth.
Each hair on your head has a growth cycle. With male pattern baldness, this growth cycle begins to weaken, and the hair follicle shrinks, producing shorter and finer strands of hair. Eventually, the growth cycle for each hair ends and no new hair grows in its place. A few medical conditions and medications can also cause hair loss.
Making the diagnosis
Typical male pattern baldness is usually diagnosed based on the appearance and pattern of the hair loss, along with a detailed medical history, including questions about the prevalence of hair loss in your family. If in doubt your doctor might refer you to a dermatologist to confirm the diagnosis.
No treatment
To become gradually bald is a normal part of the ageing process for most men. No treatment is wanted or needed by most affected men. Normal washing and combing of hair will not make it fall out any quicker, so continue with your normal hair routine. You can discuss with your barber what hair style would best suit you.
For some men, baldness can be distressing particularly if it is excessive or occurs early in life. Treatment may then help.
Treatment
Many men are bombarded by radio, television and other advertisements about various treatments for male pattern baldness. They often promote miracle treatments for hair loss. The bottom line is that most advertised “treatments” do not work for the prevention and treatment of hair loss.
In recent years, medicine has made tremendous strides in the treatment of men’s hair loss. With the advent of 5-alpha-reductace inhibitors, such as finasteride and minoxidil and evolution of surgical hair restoration, living with noticeable hair loss is no longer inevitable. It is now possible to stop or slow the progression of hair loss and to replace lost hair through surgery with completely natural results. If you have male pattern baldness discuss various treatment options with your doctor rather than buying over the counter mediations with no proven scientific benefits.
Counseling
Going bald can be a big change. You may have trouble accepting your appearance. You should seek counseling if you experience anxiety, low self-esteem, depression, or other emotional problems, because of male pattern baldness.
Conclusion
Male pattern baldness affects over half of men, to some extent, over the age of 50 – and most men at some stage in their lives. For some men it can be a source of much embarrassment, while other men accept it as part of the ageing process.
Recently, two drugs and restorative surgery are available for slowing and treating male pattern baldness, but there are some side-effects associated with these treatment options. If you are concerned about male pattern baldness visit your doctor today.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over thirty-five years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 4975828).
