My 73 Year Old Mother Is Losing Her Hair

My mother is 73 years old, and she has had a lot of tests done lately on her liver, kidneys, MRI, CAT scans, Pet scans, and now her hair if falling out – do you think any of these test could be the cause of this – what can she do to stop the hair loss or is there anything she can take to promote hair growth.

Hair loss after menopause could be seen in women without any other medical problems. There have been many theories for hair loss in older women, including the lack of supporting effect of female hormones on hair, or domination of the small amount of male hormones, which is normal in women when the level of estrogen and progesterone drops. The genetic background is also undeniable in these conditions. The diagnostic tests that you mentioned could not be the cause of her hair loss but if she has any underlying disease, the stress from that would cause hair loss.

The only FDA approved medication for treating female hair loss is Rogaine (generic name minoxidil), which she can use topically twice a day. Also, some women with female pattern baldness could be candidates for a hair transplant. For more evaluation for either starting on medical treatment or surgery you need to have your mother seen and evaluated by a good hair specialist.