Here’s a quick reality check: experts estimate that about 50 to 100 hair fall out every day, which is normal. But if you’re losing a lot more than that, you’re not alone. Studies suggest that over 60% of men and nearly 40% of women will notice visible hair thinning at some point in their lives. The good news? In many cases, catching it early makes all the difference.
You don’t need to panic every time you see a few strands in the shower. What you do need is to pay attention before those strands turn into handfuls. Early hair fall screening, like the ones offered by Tata 1mg, can help you understand what’s happening beneath the surface and stop hair loss before it becomes permanent.
Hair Loss Doesn’t Happen Overnight
Hair doesn’t suddenly fall out because you had one stressful week or skipped conditioner. It’s a slow process. Each strand of hair has a life cycle: it grows, rests, and eventually falls to make way for a new one.
The problem starts when more hairs move into the resting phase than into the growing phase. That shift can take months to show up. By the time you see thinning, your follicles might have already been struggling for a while.
That’s why early screening matters. It lets you catch those changes before you lose too much. Think of it like checking your car’s oil; you don’t wait for the engine light to flash before you lift the hood.
Hormones: The Quiet Disruptors.
Hormones control a lot more than mood swings. They influence how your hair grows, how strong it is, and even how long it stays on your head.
When estrogen and progesterone drop, like after childbirth or during menopause, many women notice sudden shedding. For men, testosterone can convert into a compound called DHT, which slowly shrinks hair follicles. Over time, that’s what leads to receding hairlines and bald spots.
Thyroid hormones also play a big role. Both an overactive and an underactive thyroid can lead to dryness, thinning, and breakage. The tricky part? These imbalances don’t always show obvious symptoms right away. Hair fall might be the first clue that your hormones are out of sync.
A simple blood test can reveal what’s really happening. Tata 1mg’s Hair Fall Screening Test includes checks for thyroid levels, iron, vitamin D, and other key markers that affect hair growth. It’s a small step that can point you toward the right solution instead of guessing.
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Stress Doesn’t Just Live in Your Head
We talk about stress like it’s only mental, but your body feels it too. When you’re constantly tense, working late, skipping meals, and sleeping badly, your body releases more cortisol. High cortisol can push hair follicles into “rest mode,” which means more shedding and slower growth.
The good thing about stress-related hair fall (called telogen effluvium) is that it’s usually temporary. But only if you deal with the cause. A screening test can help confirm whether stress is the main issue or if there’s something else going on, like a nutrient deficiency.
Your Body Sends Quiet Signals. Don’t Ignore Them
Hair fall can be your body’s early warning system. Low iron, vitamin B12 deficiency, or even autoimmune issues can first show up as thinning hair or sudden patches.
A checkup can uncover those hidden issues before they get serious. You might just need to tweak your diet, take a supplement, or adjust your medication.
Get screened on time!
Why Early Action Works Best
Here’s the thing about hair follicles: they don’t die overnight. They weaken gradually. Catch them early enough, and you can bring them back to life with the right care. Wait too long, and they may stop growing altogether.
Modern treatments can be very effective, from simple lifestyle changes to topical treatments, supplements, and advanced therapies like PRP (platelet-rich plasma). But they all work better when your follicles are still active.
It’s like watering a thirsty plant. If you do it in time, it perks up. Leave it too long, and it wilts for good.
What Happens During a Hair Fall Screening?
A hair fall screening isn’t as intimidating as it sounds. You’ll usually start with a short consultation and some simple tests. A doctor might ask about your diet, stress levels, sleep habits, and family history.
Then comes the science part, blood tests that measure your thyroid hormones, iron, vitamin D, and other markers linked to hair health. Some screenings also check for DHT levels or signs of inflammation that could affect your scalp.
Within a few days, you’ll have a report that tells you what’s off and what’s working fine. From there, you and your doctor can decide what’s next: maybe a supplement, a new diet plan, or a topical treatment.
Don’t Delay: Test Today
Everyday Habits that Help Your Hair Thrive
Even after you’ve had a checkup, there’s a lot you can do to keep your hair healthy:
- Eat protein: Hair is mostly made of keratin, a type of protein. Eggs, lentils, nuts, and fish are great options.
- Stay hydrated: Dehydration can make hair brittle and dull.
- Get enough sleep: Your body repairs itself at night, including your hair follicles.
- Massage your scalp: It boosts blood flow and encourages growth.
- Be gentle: Avoid tight hairstyles, harsh chemicals, and too much heat styling. Your hair’s not as indestructible as you think.
These small habits might seem simple, but over time they make a big difference.
Listen to what your hair’s telling you.
So, if your ponytail feels thinner or you’ve noticed more strands in the sink, don’t ignore it. Pay attention. A quick screening can give you answers and peace of mind.
Because once hair follicles go dormant for too long, bringing them back is tough. Acting early gives you options, and that’s power.
FAQs
1. How much hair fall is normal?
Losing up to 100 strands a day is normal. If you’re seeing clumps or a wider part, it’s time for a check.
2. What happens in a hair fall screening?
A simple blood test checks things like thyroid, iron, and vitamin levels. With Tata 1mg, you can book it online and get your sample collected at home.
3. Can early testing really stop hair loss?
Often, yes. If the cause is stress, hormones, or low nutrients, early action can help your hair recover before follicles weaken.
4. How often should I get tested?
Once a year works for most people. But if you’re shedding more than usual, don’t wait, test sooner.
5. What can I do right now?
Eat protein-rich foods, sleep well, manage stress, and avoid harsh treatments. And if you’re worried, book a Hair Fall Screening to get clear answers fast.
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(The article is written by Mantasha, Sr. Executive, Clinical Health & Content, and reviewed by Monalisa Deka, Deputy Manager, Clinical Health & Content, Medical Affairs)