Pregnancy Care

What to Expect from High-Risk Pregnancy Care

If you’re a mother-to-be whose pregnancy isn’t routine – perhaps you’re expecting twins, or you or your baby has developed an unexpected medical condition – your doctor or nurse-midwife may refer you to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist (MFM) for extra care.

These high-risk pregnancy experts, also called perinatologists, are obstetrician-gynecologists with three to four additional years of advanced education and training in diagnosing, monitoring and treating pregnancy complications in a woman and her fetus. Their focus: keeping both mom and baby healthy before, during and after birth.

Before pregnancy:

Planning a healthy pregnancy: Meeting with an MFM before you conceive can help you plan a healthy pregnancy. Ongoing health issues, such as asthma, diabetes, a heart condition, high blood pressure and obesity can worsen during your pregnancy. This can affect you and, sometimes, your developing baby. This specialist can also monitor how your pregnancy is affecting chronic health conditions that involve your heart, blood vessels, lungs, kidneys, immune system, digestive system and more. She or he can advise about safe medications and other treatments, and how to stay healthy after delivery.

Helping if you’ve had past pregnancy problems:An MFM can look for the reasons for multiple miscarriages or early labor and delivery, and find solutions

During pregnancy:

Diagnosing birth defects, fetal abnormalities, growth restrictions and genetic conditions:MFMs use advanced ultrasound, fetal MRI, fetal echocardiograms, and specialized testing to identify genetic conditions and birth defects. This allows parents to prepare for the birth of a child with special needs. It also helps other specialists, such as pediatric surgeons and neonatologists, develop a plan to treat the baby after, and sometimes before, birth. “After confirming a fetal diagnosis, it is critical to assemble the right care team for the baby’s unique needs,” says Dr. Ragsdale. “As one of a few facilities in the country with complete obstetric, delivery, newborn, pediatric and adult services and specialists all in one place, our patients truly benefit from the vast expertise we can provide.”

Checking the health of multiples: Twins, triplets and other multiples face a variety of risks and higher odds for early delivery. MFMs can track their growth and use advanced imaging techniques to look for causes of medical issues they may face, such as slow growth or circulation problems. In some cases, they can even perform procedures to correct issues before birth.

Assessing other problems and risks: MFMs care for women with pre-existing health problems and conditions that arise during pregnancy, such as diabetes and high blood pressure. “We provide expert advice and care throughout pregnancy to women with high-risk medical issues to minimize risk for complications, such as preterm birth,” says Dr. Ragsdale.

Labor and Delivery:

Depending on the complication or diagnosis, medical or surgical treatment may be required during or immediately after delivery. “If so, it is critical to deliver at a facility equipped to provide the highest level of care to both mom and baby,” says Dr. Ragsdale.

Postpartum:

Women who have complications after birth, such as heavy bleeding or infections, may receive care from an MFM along with an intensive care team.

Healing Heels

If your heel hurts when you take your first steps in the morning or while walking throughout the day, you may be dealing with plantar fasciitis, one of the most common types of heel pain.

According to sports medicine specialist the plantar fascia is fibrous tissue that stretches from the heel bone to the ball of your foot. It fans out along the sole of your foot and provides support to your arch.

“The plantar fascia is important when you walk or run because it acts as a shock absorber,” Dr. Flannery says. “Sometimes it can get pulled or tear because of an increase in your activity level. When you sleep, the tension is off the plantar fascia, but when you get up, you feel it. I've heard people describe it as if they’re walking on glass.”

What Causes Plantar Fasciitis?

Besides increased activity, plantar fasciitis can result from:

Tight calf muscles
Flat feet
Chronic overuse
Age

“In the athlete, it can occur when you push off or start to run,” he says. “We commonly see it at the beginning of the season, especially if the person hasn't been training a lot. Plantar fasciitis can affect anyone at any age and athletic level.”

Heel Pain Relief

Unfortunately, plantar fasciitis can take a long time to heal if you ignore the problem. According to Dr. Flannery, if you're dealing with heel pain, you should:

Rest your foot
Ice it several times a day by rolling your foot over a frozen tennis ball or water bottle
Take anti-inflammatory medicine, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, for two or three weeks
Do stretching exercises for the plantar fascia
Sleep with your foot immobilized using a special boot – sold at many pharmacies -designed to hold the foot at a 90-degree angle

If that doesn't relieve your pain after a few weeks, then see your doctor, Dr. Flannery says. Your doctor will likely ultrasound your foot to make sure it's not torn. Afterwards, the recommendations might include:

Physical therapy to calm the pain

Prescription medications
A corticosteroid injection

Minimally Invasive Procedure for Persistent Pain

If it's been more than 90 days and the pain hasn't responded to these conservative treatments, you may need to consider a different treatment option.

One such option is Tenex®, a minimally invasive procedure performed at University Hospitals Westlake Health Center. It works well to repair the body's tendons, such as shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees and/or heels, Dr. Flannery says.

“The plantar fascia is one of those areas that isn't a great surgery option,” Dr. Flannery says. “That's why Tenex is beneficial.”

How It Works

If you're a candidate, the procedure is done on an outpatient basis. After either a local anesthetic or light sedation depending on your preference, the area will be cleaned and a very small incision made.

Next, a small needle is inserted. This uses high frequency vibrations to break up any scar tissue along the plantar fascia. Saline water is used to both cool the needle and to remove debris.

“It works in a way similar to a dentist’s drill,” says Dr. Flannery. “The dentist sets the drill to a certain amount of resistance and when it gets into healthy stronger tissue, it stops.”

After the diseased tissue is removed, the wound is closed. Instead of stitches, usually two or three small adhesive strips are applied. This keeps scarring to a minimum.

Recovery Time

The healing time usually takes about six weeks. Following the procedure, you'll wear a boot for seven to 14 days and won't require crutches. After four weeks, most people can begin a walking routine to get back into shape, but no running or dancing.

“At the six-week mark, you're usually ready to go,” Dr. Flannery says. “This is a very safe procedure. It's minimally invasive with very little scarring and can be done on an outpatient basis. And you can get back to pre-injury level of functioning fairly quickly. Around 80 percent (of patients) do better and none have been made worse.”

Skin Diseases & Skin Care

 About Skin Diseases & Skin Care

The journal is using Editorial Manager System for quality peer review process. Peer review processing is performed by eminent researchers, scientists, scholars and editorial board members of Skin Diseases & Skin Care Journal.

Acne
Acne is a common skin disease characterized by pimples on the face, chest, and back. It occurs when the pores of the skin become clogged with oil, dead skin cells, and bacteria.

Related Journals of Acne Journal of Trauma & Acute Care, Journal of Prevention and Infection Control, Vitiligo & Dermatomyositis, Journal of Health & Medical Economics,     British Journal of Dermatology, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology,     Sexually Transmitted Infections.

Shingles
This painful viral infection is caused by herpes zoster, the virus that causes chickenpox. After infection with chickenpox, the virus “hides” in the nervous system in a latent or dormant state. Exposure to chickenpox or other stressors may cause a reactivation of the virus, resulting in a shingles outbreak. People over the age of 50 are most likely to suffer from shingles.

Hemangioma
Related Journals of Shingles Vitiligo & Dermatomyositis, Medical & Clinical Reviews, Insights in Biomedicine, Cosmetic Dermatology, Korean Journal of Dermatology, Dermatologie in Beruf und Umwelt, Dermatologia Kliniczna.

Hemangioma is a congenital vascular malformation consisting of a benign tumor made up of newly formed blood vessels clustered together; it may be present at birth in various parts of the body, including the liver and bones. In the majority of cases it appears as a network of small blood-filled capillaries near the surface of the skin, forming a reddish or purplish birthmark.
cavernous hemangioma a congenital vascular malformation that has a soft, spongy consistency and may contain a large amount of blood. It usually appears during the first few postnatal weeks and disappears by the age of 9 years. The most common sites are head, neck, and viscera such as the liver, spleen, or pancreas. Treatment varies according to the size of the lesion.
strawberry hemangioma a circumscribed capillary hemangioma, which may be present at birth or may appear soon after birth. These are most common on the head, neck, and trunk and appear as small macules that develop into raised purplish-red lobulated tumors. Most involute by age 2 to 3.


Related Journals of Hemangioma 
Medical & Clinical Reviews, Insights in Biomedicine,Medical case reports,Korean Journal of Dermatology, Dermatologie in Beruf und Umwelt,Dermatologia Cosmetica, Medica y Quirurgica.

Skin Cancer
Cancer that forms in the tissues of the skin. There are several types of skin cancer. They are due to the development of abnormal cells that have the ability to invade or spread to other parts of the body. There are three main types: basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and melanoma. 

Basal cell carcinoma: Cancer that begins in the lower part of the epidermis. It may appear as a small white or flesh-colored bump that grows slowly and may bleed. Basal cell carcinomas are usually found on areas of the body exposed to the sun. Basal cell carcinomas rarely spread to other parts of the body. They are the most common form of skin cancer. Also called basal cell cancer. 

Squamous cell carcinoma: Cancer that begins in squamous cells. Squamous cells are thin, flat cells that look like fish scales, and are found in the tissue that forms the surface of the skin, the lining of the hollow organs of the body, and the lining of the respiratory and digestive tracts. Most cancers of the anus, cervix, head and neck, and vagina are squamous cell carcinomas. Also called epidermoid carcinoma. 

Melanoma: A form of cancer that begins in melanocytes (cells that make the pigment melanin). It may begin in a mole (skin melanoma), but can also begin in other pigmented tissues, such as in the eye or in the intestines.

Related Journals of Skin Cancer Head and Neck Cancer Research, Journal of Orthodontics & Endodontics, Cosmetic Dermatology, Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology, Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, Journal of Health & Medical Economics, Journal of Cosmetic Science.

Mouth Ulcers
A mouth ulcer or oral ulcer, mucosal ulcer is an ulcer that occurs on the mucous membrane of the oral cavity. Mouth ulcers are very common, occurring in association with many diseases and by many different mechanisms. They are usually white, red, yellow or grey in colour and are inflamed around the edge. Although mouth ulcers can be uncomfortable, especially when you eat, drink or brush your teeth, they are usually harmless.

Related Journals of Mouth Ulcers
Insights in Medical Physics,Vitiligo & Dermatomyositis, Journal of Preventive Medicine, International Wound Journal, Dermatology Research and Practice, British Journal of Dermatology, Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology.
Rosacea
A chronic skin disease that causes persistent redness over the areas of the face and nose that normally blush. mainly the forehead, the chin, and the lower half of the nose. The tiny blood vessels in these areas enlarge (dilate) and become more visible through the skin, appearing like tiny red lines (telangiectasias). Pimples that look like teenage acne can occur. Rosacea occurs most often between the ages of 30 and 60, especially in people with fair skin. It affects both sexes.

Related Journals of RosaceaVitiligo & Dermatomyositis, Insights in Medical Physics, Clinical Pediatrics & Dermatology, Melanoma and Skin Diseases, Turk Dermatoloji Dergisi, Iranian Journal of Dermatology, Japanese Journal of Leprosy.
Rubeola
Rubeola (measles) is an infection caused by a virus that grows in the cells lining the throat and lungs. Rubeola has a distinct rash that helps aid in the diagnosis. Measles is spread from one child to another through direct contact with discharge from the nose and throat. Sometimes, it is spread through airborne droplets from an infected child. This is a very contagious disease that usually consists of a fever, and cough, followed by a generalized rash.

Related Journals of Rubeola
Journal of Trauma & Acute Care,Vitiligo & Dermatomyositis,Health Systems and Policy Research,Journal of Cosmetic Science, Skinmed,Australasian Journal of Dermatology.


 Lentigo Maligna


Lentigo maligna is similar to the superficial spreading type, as it also remains close to the skin surface for quite a while, and usually appears as a flat or mildly elevated mottled tan, brown or dark brown discoloration. This type of in situ melanoma is found most often in the elderly, arising on chronically sun-exposed, damaged skin on the face, ears, arms and upper trunk.

Related Journals of Lentigo Maligna Health Systems and Policy Research, Insights in Medical Physics, Journal of Pediatric Care, Dermatologica Sinica, Leprosy Review, Journal of Cosmetic Science, Skinmed.
 Cutaneous Melanoma

Melanoma that occurs on the skin, called cutaneous melanoma, is the most common type of melanoma. This type of melanoma occurs in all parts of the skin, including the soles of feet, on the palms of the hand, in between toes and fingers, and underneath the finger and toe nails.

Related Journals of Cutaneous Melanoma Head and Neck Cancer Research, Vitiligo & Dermatomyositis, Journal of Orthodontics & Endodontics, International Wound Journal, Dermatology Research and Practice, Journal of Clinical and Aesthetic Dermatology, Australasian Journal of Dermatology.

Herpetic Whitlow

Herpetic whitlow is a viral infection of the hand caused by the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) or herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2). It causes swelling, redness, and tenderness of the skin that may be associated with blisters. An outbreak typically lasts between 2 and 3 weeks. Prompt treatment with antiviral medication such as valacyclovir (Valtrex), acyclovir (Zovirax), or famciclovir (Famvir), may reduce the length and severity of an infection. It is important to keep the infected area covered. Contact with the lesion may result in new sores or passing the virus on to others.

Related Journals of Herpetic Whitlow Medical case reports, Health Systems and Policy Research, Journal of Preventive Medicine, Insights in Medical Physics, Surgical and Cosmetic Dermatology, Journal of Applied Cosmetology, Dermatologia Revista Mexicana.

 Latex Allergy

Latex allergy usually develops after repeated exposure to latex products, including balloons or medical gloves. Symptoms may include hives, itching or a stuffy or runny nose. Some people may experience asthma symptoms, such as wheezing, chest tightness and difficulty breathing.Symptoms begin within minutes of exposure to latex products; direct physical contact isn’t needed to trigger an allergic reaction.

Related Journals of Latex Allergy Medical & Clinical Reviews, Insights in Biomedicine, Journal of Biomedical Sciences, Deri Hastaliklari ve Frengi Arsivi, Przeglad Dermatologiczny, Aktuelle Dermatologie, Dermatologia Cosmetica, Medica y Quirurgica.

Malignant-Melanom

Malignant melanoma is a type of cancer arising from the melanocyte cells of the skin. Melanocytes are cells in the skin that produce a pigment called melanin. Malignant melanoma develops when the melanocytes no longer respond to normal control mechanisms of cellular growth.

Related Journals of Malignant-Melanoma Clinical Pediatrics & Dermatology, Insights in Medical Physics, Journal of Prevention and Infection Control,Journal of Aesthetic & Reconstructive Surgery, Sexually Transmitted Diseases, Journal of Dermatological Science, Journal of the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.

Stratum Corneum

The layers of dead keratinized cells that form the outermost layers of mammalian epidermis. The stratum corneum provides a water-resistant barrier between the external environment and the living cells of the skin.

Related Journals of Stratum Corneum Dual Diagnosis: Open Access, Journal of Clinical Epigenetics, Journal of Clinical & Experimental Orthopaedics, Melanoma and Skin Diseases, Seminars in Cutaneous Medicine and Surgery, Journal of Dermatological Treatment, Journal of Dermatology.

Morgellons

Morgellons disease is a delusional disorder that leads to the belief that one has parasites or foreign material moving in, or coming out of, the skin. Morgellons disease is a little-known disorder that is often associated with nonspecific skin, nerve, and psychiatric symptoms. People with this disorder seem to be more likely to develop low thyroid functioning (hypothyroidism).

Related Journals of Morgellons Pediatric Emergency Care and Medicine: Open Access, Medical & Clinical Reviews, Vitiligo & Dermatomyositis, Open Dermatology Journal, Cesko-Slovenska Dermatologie, Journal of Pakistan Association of Dermatologists, Journal of the American College of Clinical Wound Specialists.

Pimples on Breasts:

Pimples on Breasts: What to Do

Treating pimples on the breasts
Nobody likes getting pimples, whether they’re on your face or your breasts.Acne can happen to anyone at any age, and appear on different parts of your body for a variety of reasons. It’s important to remember that it’s treatable, and while uncomfortable, pimples aren’t usually a major health risk.

You can treat breast pimples by changing certain habits and using over-the-counter (OTC) medications, or a combination of the two. Often this is enough to provide relief. Read on to find out home treatments and more.

Habits to treat pimples on breasts

Try some of these at-home treatments and lifestyle changes to help treat pimples on the breasts:

Wash area regularly. Wash the area twice each day with a mild soap.
Wash oily hair. If you have long hair that reaches your chest, it could be contributing to pimples. Wash your hair when it feels oily.
Rinse off sweat. Shower after a workout or period of heavy sweating.
Avoid the sun. Avoid exposing your chest to the sun.
Use oil-free sunscreen. Use  sunscreens that are oil-free so they won’t clog pores.
Try tea tree oil. Tea tree oil can be bought as a gel or wash and might help to reduce acne.
Topical zinc. Creams and lotions made with zinc may help cut down on breakouts.
Birth control. For some women, the hormones in birth control  help to regulate acne.
OTC creams and gels. Use ones with ingredients that include: benzoyl peroxide, sulfur, resorcinol, or salicylic acid.

Medications for acne

If you don’t get relief from these methods, you might want to see a dermatologist or other healthcare provider. Dermatologists specialize in skin conditions and treatments, and can help you determine what’s contributing to your breast pimples.

What not to do

There are some things that can make pimples worse or more irritated. Avoid:

Using harsh soaps with ingredients like alcohol, which dries out your skin.
Scrubbing too hard.
Popping, squeezing, or picking at pimples. This can lead to scras.
Staying in sweaty clothing after a workout.

What causes pimples?

Certain things can make pimples worse, including:

Genetics. Acne can run in families.
Diet. Some research shows that dairy products might be linked to acne. A found a connection between the amount of dairy eaten and the risk of developing acne, as well as breast cancer. Chocolate and carbohydrates may also be suspect. 
Medications. Medications such as corticosteroids may have an effect on acne.
Hormones. In women, pimple outbreaks can be linked to hormonal  changes that happen during menstruation and pregnancy. 

Hair Loss

1.  Vitamin D Deficiency and Hair Loss? 

2.  Iron Deficiency and Hair Loss 

 3.  Hair Loss and Testosterone?

4.  Does Stress Cause Hair Loss?

Overview
Vitamin D is an important nutrient that is essential to our health. It boosts immunity, keeps bones strong and skin healthy, stimulates cell growth, and helps create new hair follicles. You absorb vitamin D through sun exposure primarily, but you can take dietary supplements and eat certain foods to up your intake of the nutrient.

Does vitamin D deficiency cause hair loss?

 Shows that a lack of vitamin D in your body can lead to hair loss. One role vitamin D plays is stimulating new and old hair follicles. When there isn’t enough vitamin D in your system, new hair growth can be stunted.

Vitamin D deficiency has been to alopecia, the autoimmune condition that causes bald patches on the scalp and other areas of the body. Both men and women can experience alopecia. Another resrch found that women 18 to 45 years old who experienced alopecia or other types of hair loss had low levels of vitamin D.

Reasons for insufficient vitamin D levels include spending more time indoors, wearing a lot of sunscreen, and not eating foods packed with the nutrient.

Forms of vitamin D
Vitamin D supplements
Multivitamins typically include only 400 IU of vitamin D, which is below the recommended daily allowance. You should also receive some vitamin D in your diet. Your doctor can check blood levels of vitamin D and decide the dose of supplementation. If levels are very low, high prescription doses might be recommended by your doctor. Make sure to take the supplement during mealtime so your body can absorb the fat-soluble vitamin properly. Receive their nutrients through their mother’s milk. If a breast-feeding mother doesn’t have an adequate amount of vitamin D in her diet, her baby will likely need a vitamin D supplement.

Sun exposure

Most people get the bulk of their vitamin D from basking in the sun. Not spending enough time in the sun or using too much sunblock limits your exposure, which can lead to a deficit of vitamin D. If you can, take a 15-minute tour of your neighborhood on a sunny day. There is a fine balance between protecting our skin from sun exposure and absorbing vitamin D. If you can’t stay in the sun for long, try to spend some extra time near a window where sunlight is shining through.

Foods with vitamin D

Eating a healthy diet of foods naturally containing or fortified with vitamin D can improve your levels. Some foods are naturally rich with the nutrient. Salmon, mackerel and other fatty fish, fish liver oils, and animal fats are great sources. In fact, one tablespoon of cod liver oil provides. But you can also eat food products fortified with vitamin D, such as certain cereals, milk, and orange juice. Vegan and vegetarian diets, though, tend to lack enough vitamin D, so supplements may be needed if you follow that lifestyle.

Outlook
Studies shows that vitamin D receptors, rather than the nutrient itself, can help produce new hair follicles and restore hair growth. A 2014 study published in Molecular Endocrinology found that hair regrew in mice two weeks after introducing vitamin D receptors in the VDR null rodents. But scientific research is scarce on how long it will take for hair to grow back — and if there is a significant amount of hair regrowth — after upping your vitamin D intake and improving your levels.
2.  Iron Deficiency and Hair Loss?

Why does iron deficiency cause hair loss?
Hair loss has many causes, and it can affect adults and children of all genders. Hair loss isn’t only caused by . It can also be caused by a lack of nutrients. When you don’t have enough iron, your body can’t produce the hemoglobin in your blood. Hemoglobin carries oxygen for the growth and repair of cells in your body, including the cells that stimulate hair growth.

What does it look like?
Iron deficiency hair loss can look like traditional male- and female-pattern hair loss. A published in the Journal of Korean Medical Science found that iron may not only play a role in hair loss, but it may cause hair to fall out in a fashion similar to that of genetic male- and female-pattern baldness.

How do you treat iron deficiency and hair loss?
Most hair loss related to iron deficiency is not permanent. The best way to treat hair loss is to address the underlying cause of the problem. If you think your hair loss is related to an iron deficiency, consult a doctor to measure your iron levels. Your doctor will most likely order a, which measures the levels of a protein called ferritin that helps store iron.

How do you treat iron deficiency and hair loss?
Most hair loss related to iron deficiency is not permanent. The best way to treat hair loss is to address the underlying cause of the problem. If you think your hair loss is related to an iron deficiency, consult a doctor to measure your iron levels. Your doctor will most likely order a, which measures the levels of a protein called ferritin that helps store iron.

   3.  Hair Loss and Testosterone?

Complex weave
The relationship between testosterone and hair loss is complicated. A popular belief is that bald men have high levels of testosterone, but is this really true?

Different forms of testosterone

Testosterone exists in your body in different forms. There’s “free” testosterone that isn’t bound to proteins in your body. This is the form of testosterone most available to act within the body.

Testosterone can also be bound to albumin, a protein in the blood. Most testosterone is bound to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) protein and isn’t active. If you have a low level of SHBG, you may have a high level of free testosterone in your bloodstream.

Shape of baldness

Male pattern baldness (MPB) has a distinctive shape. The front hairline recedes, especially at the sides, forming an M shape. This is frontal baldness. The crown of the head, also known as the vertex, becomes bald as well. Eventually the two areas join into a “U” shape. MPB can even extend to chest hair, which can thin as you age. Oddly enough, hair in different locations on the body can react differently to hormonal changes. For instance, facial hair growth can improve while other areas become bald.

4. Does Stress Cause Hair Loss?

DHT: The hormone behind hair loss

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is made from testosterone by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. It can also be made from DHEA, a hormone more common in women. DHT is found in skin, hair follicles, and the prostate. The actions of DHT and the sensitivity of hair follicles to DHT is what causes hair loss.

DHT and other conditions
There is some evidence of a link between baldness and prostate cancer and other diseases.Reports that men with vertex baldness have 1.5 times more of a risk of developing prostate cancer than men without bald spots. The risk of coronary artery disease is also more than 23 percent higher in men with vertex bald spots. Investigations are ongoing as to whether there is a link between DHT levels and metabolic syndrome, diabetes, and other health conditions.

It’s your genes
It’s not the amount of testosterone or DHT that causes baldness; it’s the sensitivity of your hair follicles. That sensitivity is determined by genetics. The AR gene makes the receptor on hair follicles that interact with testosterone and DHT. If your receptors are particularly sensitive, they are more easily triggered by even small amounts of DHT, and hair loss occurs more easily as a result. Other genes may also play a part.

Hair loss in women
Women may also experience hair loss due to androgenetic alopecia. Although women have much lower levels of testosterone than men do, there is enough to potentially cause androgenetic hair loss.Women experience a different pattern of hair loss. Thinning occurs over the top of the scalp in a “Christmas tree” pattern, but the front hairline doesn’t recede. Female pattern hair loss (FPHL) is also due to the actions of DHT on hair follicles.

Treatments for hair loss
Several methods of treating MPB and FPHL involve interfering with testosterone and DHT’s actions. (Propecia) is a drug that inhibits the 5-alpha reductase enzyme that converts testosterone to DHT. It’s dangerous to use in women who may become pregnant, and there may be sexual side effects of this drug on both men and women.

Is it possible?
Hair loss is clinically known as alopecia. Both men and women may experience hair loss in their lifetime. If you’re experiencing hair loss, it may be caused by stress.Keep reading to learn how stress can affect your hair health, whether its effects are permanent, and what you can do to help encourage regrowth.

Types of stress-related hair loss
Not all hair loss is caused by stress. There are three types of hair loss that are high stress levels:
Telogen effluvium
 Occurs when there’s a change to the number of hair follicles that are actually growing hair. If this change occurs during the telogen — or resting — phase of hair growth, it can result in shedding.This thinning may not occur all over the head. It’s often seen in patches, especially toward the center of the scalp. People affected by TE  lose all of their scalp hair.In more extreme cases, you may experience thinning hair on other parts of the body. This includes the eyebrows or the genital area.

What you can do

Diet and nutrition
Eating a balanced, nutritious diet of whole foods is necessary for the health of your body — and your hair.

While it’s important to include all of the essential vitamins in a healthy diet, there are some that may be vital to hair growth:

Vitamin C. This vitamin is essential for building collagen, the skin’s connective tissue that is found in hair follicles. Foods that contain vitamin C include citrus fruits, broccoli, bell peppers, and strawberries.
Vitamin B. This complex of many vitamins promotes a healthy metabolism, as well as healthy skin and hair. B vitamins can be found in foods like dark leafy greens, beans, nuts, and avocados.
Vitamin E. This vitamin contains , which can contribute to a healthy scalp. Foods rich in vitamin E include sunflower seeds, spinach, olive oil, broccoli, and shrimp.

If you aren’t getting enough of these nutrients in your diet, talk to your doctor about supplements. They can discuss your options and recommend the best dosage for you. 

Hair Growth

The 5 Best Vitamins for Hair Growth (+3 Other Nutrients)

Many people view healthy-looking hair as a sign of health or beauty.

Like any other part of your body, hair needs a variety of nutrients to be healthy and grow .

In fact, many nutritional deficiencies are linked to hair loss.

While factors such as age, genetics and hormones also affect hair growth, optimal nutrient intake is key.

Below are 5 vitamins and 3 other nutrients that may be important for hair growth.

Vitamin A

All cells need vitamin A for growth. This includes hair, the fastest growing tissue in the human body.

Vitamin A also helps skin glands make an oily substance called sebum. Sebum moisturizes the scalp and helps keep hair healthy .

Diets deficient in vitamin A may lead to several problems, including hair loss .

While it's important to get enough vitamin A, too much may be dangerous. Studies show that an overdose of vitamin A can also contribute to hair loss.

Sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkins, spinach and kale are all high in beta-carotene, which is turned into vitamin A.

Vitamin A can also be found in animal products such as milk, eggs and yogurt. Cod liver oil is a particularly good source.

Vitamin B
One of the best known vitamins for hair growth is a B-vitamin called biotin.
Studies link biotin deficiency with hair loss in humans .
Although biotin is used as an alternative hair-loss treatment, those who are deficient have the best results.
However, deficiency is very rare because it occurs naturally in a wide range of foods.
There's also a lack of data about whether biotin is effective for hair growth in healthy individuals.
Other B-vitamins help create red blood cells, which carry oxygen and nutrients to the scalp and hair follicles. These processes are important for hair growth.

Vitamin C
Free radical damage can block growth and cause your hair to age.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect against the oxidative stress caused by free radicals .

In addition, your body needs vitamin C to create a protein known as collagen — an important part of hair structure.

Vitamin C also helps your body absorb iron, a mineral necessary for hair growth.

Vitamin D

Low levels of vitaminD are linked to alopecia, a technical term for hair loss .

Research also shows that vitamin D may help create new follicles — the tiny pores in the scalp where new hair can grow .

Vitamin D is thought to play a role in hair production, but most research focuses on vitamin D receptors. The actual role of vitamin D in hair growth is unknown.

Vitamin E

Similar to vitamin C, vitamin E is an antioxidant that can prevent oxidative stress.

In one study, people with hair loss experienced a 34.5% increase in hair growth after supplementing with vitamin E for 8 months .

The placebo group had only a 0.1% increase .

Iron 

Iron helps red blood cells carry oxygen to your cells. This makes it an important mineral for many bodily functions, including hair growth.

Iron deficiency, which causes anemia, is a major cause of hair loss. 

Zinc

Zinc plays an important role in hair tissue growth and repair. It also helps keep the oil glands around the follicles working properly.

Hair loss is a common symptom of zinc deficiency .

Studies show zinc supplements reduce hair loss caused by zinc deficiency .

However, there are some anecdotal reports that supplementing with too high of a dose can also contribute to hair loss.

Protein

Hair is made almost entirely of

Protein  Consuming enough is important for hair growth.

Animal studies show that protein deficiency may decrease hair growth and even lead to hair loss.

Hair Breakage

How to Stop Hair Breakage

Overview
Hair breakage has many different causes. Healthy hair depends on an inner cuticle with overlapping scales that keep your strands together. When these scales fall apart, your hair can get dry and eventually separate, leading to damage. This causes breakage, along with other symptoms, such as frizz and dryness.

 Diet

There’s actually a lot to the old saying “you are what you eat,” especially when it comes to hair and skin health. Certain nutrients help your hair grow and stave off breakage from damage. Make sure you’re getting enough zinc, iron, and folic acid in your daily diet. Adequate protein and antioxidants (found in plant foods) can also keep your hair damage-free.

Stress

There’s a multitude of evidence showing links between stress and hair loss, but it’s also known that stress can lead to hair breakage. Telogen effluvium is the type of stress to hair damage. This type of stress makes your follicles go dormant, so hair that’s in the middle of a growth cycle may break off. You might notice old hair fall out, too. Managing your stress may result in healthier hair.

Dryness
Unusually dry hair is one of the precursors to damage and breakage. It’s also caused by a variety of factors, including dry weather, low humidity, and too much heat. Be sure you use warm and not hot water when you wash your hair — the latter leads to further drying.

Heat damage
To get the best results from your hair dryer, flat iron, or curling iron, you need high heat. However, when you use these tools incorrectly or too much, you risk damaging the cuticle from extreme temperatures.
One way to prevent overall heat damage is to give your strands a break from all styling tools at least once a week. To reduce the actual heat damage from your styling tools, select ceramic versions — these heat up more evenly so you don’t have to keep using them on the same sections of hair repeatedly. It’s also important to protect your hair before you apply the heat. 

Over-processing
Perms, relaxers, professional straightening, and coloring can all make your hair seem like it’s healthier after the first session or two. But if you do these services too often, the cuticle can break down and cause hair damage.

Over-washing

If you have oily skin, you’re also more likely to have excess sebum (natural oil) production in your scalp. This can lead to the temptation to wash your hair more often than you need to.

Improper towel drying
When you step out of the shower, it’s a natural response to rub a towel on your skin and hair. However, this rubbing motion actually damages your hair when it’s most vulnerable (after being wet). Instead of rubbing water out of your hair, blot an absorbent towel around your hair instead.
Elastic hair ties
Elastic hair ties are must-haves for keeping your hair out of your face while working out. And, let’s face it, they can come in handy on bad hair days or when you’re in a hurry.

The problem with hair ties is they pull on your scalp and hair cuticle. You may even notice some hair falls out every time you undo your ponytail. You can fix this by wearing your hair down once in a while, or by making your up-do a bit looser so it doesn’t pull on your hair so much.

Incorrect brushing and combing

You may have heard that brushing your hair 100 strokes a day is good for your hair, but the says that’s simply a myth. They recommend that you instead only brush and comb when styling your hair. Make sure you used wide-tooth combs to prevent breakage. You should also only use a brush for when your hair is dry, and avoid using plastic bristles.

Lack of hair trims
It may seem like cutting your hair can damage it. Ironically though, hair trims help keep your hair healthy and free of split ends. You can think of a hair trim like you would exfoliation for skin — in both instances, you need to remove some of the old cells to help new ones grow. When you have split ends, these splits in the cuticle can travel up the rest of the length of your hair and lead to breakage.

See your stylist at least every eight weeks. Even if you’re growing out your hair, trimming damaged ends can prevent further breakage.

Hypothyroidism 
Hypothyroidism (low thyroid disorder) occurs when your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones. Although the thyroid itself is small in size, it plays a large role in keeping your body functioning. This includes your metabolism, heart rate, and even your hair growth.

People with low thyroid might notice excessive hair damage and loss, especially in the shower or after brushing. If you have dry, damaged hair combined with low energy, sudden weight gain, and depression, see your healthcare provider for a thyroid check. Learn more about the effects of hypothyroidism on the body.

 Eating disorders

If you or a loved one has an unhealthy relationship with food, hair damage is a possible symptom. This is especially true of eating disorders that cause malnourishment, such as anorexia and bulimia nervosa. In such cases, hair follicles don’t have the nutrients they need to produce new hair and the process is terminated altogether. You may even notice new hairs that break off in the middle of the growing cycle.

Tips for Healthy Hair
To prevent future hair breakage, consider the following must-do hair care tips:
Wash and condition your hair daily, but gently.
Use a swimmer’s shampoo and conditioner set after going to a pool.Try to let your hair air dry when possible. products for air-dried hair without sacrificing style.
Make sure all weaves and extensions are light so they don’t pull on the scalp
.Consider a new hair style that requires less damaging maintenance on your part.Eat a balanced diet to make sure your hair gets all the nutrients it needs.
Avoid wearing tight hats for fashion — save these for sun protection only.