Which Doctor Should I See for My Hair Loss?

Hair loss is a condition that affects a vast majority of the population.  If you are a hair loss victim, there are treatment options available; you don’t need to be a silent sufferer.  Deciding to act is the first step in the treatment process.  If you are ready to do something that will stop or reverse the hair loss process, you’ll need the help of a professional.  But who should you turn to?  Your general physician?  A dermatologist?  An endocrinologist?

The answer is

Yes.  You should schedule appointments with all three types of doctors.

There are lots of unanswered questions about hair loss.  Finding the cause of your hair loss might take a lot of work.  Getting advice from multiple sources is the best way to receive the most accurate diagnosis.  Any doctor who has an interest in hair loss and has the knowledge to back up his or her claim can help.  Find a doctor (or three) who won’t dismiss your problem as unimportant or say it’s no big deal.  It is a big deal!

How do you know if a doctor can help with your problem? 

Read: Tips for Men: How To Prevent Baldness

Ask some questions.  Try calling and talking to the prospective doctor on the phone.  If you can’t speak to the actual doctor, chat with the receptionist.  Ask if this particular doctor treats a lot of hair loss cases.  Does he or she perform blood work?  What type of treatment does the doctor usually prescribe?

What is the difference between an endocrinologist and a dermatologist?

An endocrinologist is responsible for diagnosing and treating hormone problems by restoring your body’s normal hormone levels.  He or she primarily deals with endocrine (hormone-secreting) organs like the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenals, ovaries, testes, and pancreas.

Since hormones are often the instigators of hair loss, an endocrinologist is more than capable of getting to the root of your problem.

In addition to hair loss, an endocrinologist also deals with conditions like diabetes, thyroid diseases, metabolic disorders, menopause, osteoporosis, hypertension, cholesterol disorders, infertility, and cancers of the endocrine glands.

A dermatologist diagnoses and treats problems related to the skin.  This includes issues associated with its structure, functions, and appendages (nails, hair, sweat glands).

A dermatologist can help recommend both surgical and non-surgical hair restoration options.  Specialists vary in the type of procedures they perform.  Look for a hair transplantation specialist who can help with your particular hair loss situation.

When looking for a hair loss doctor, it is essential to find someone who is sensitive and acknowledges the emotional upheaval the condition causes.  Ask a lot of questions and do your research.  You will be able to find someone who can help.