Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for hair loss to help you regain confidence and well-being with our Spital Clinic GPs.
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is based on NHS recommendations. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for advice on medical conditions or treatments.
Hair loss, or alopecia, refers to the reduction of hair density or complete loss of hair from the scalp or other parts of the body. It can be a natural part of ageing or due to various medical conditions. While it’s normal to lose between 50 and 100 hairs a day, excessive hair loss can be distressing and affect self-esteem.
Hair loss can be temporary or permanent, depending on the cause. Common causes include genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, and stress. Male and female pattern baldness are the most common forms of hair loss, often hereditary. Temporary hair loss may result from illness, medication, or nutritional deficiencies.
Diagnosing an ear infection involves a thorough examination by our skilled ENT specialists. They use an otoscope, a tool with a light, to look inside the ear and check for signs of infection. This examination helps identify blockages, fluid, or inflammation.
In some cases, additional tests may be necessary. Tympanometry measures ear pressure, helping detect fluid in the middle ear. Audiometry tests assess hearing loss, providing a complete picture of the infection's impact. Our clinic uses the latest technology to ensure accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plans.
Hair loss can significantly impact your emotional well-being and self-confidence. For many, hair is an essential part of their identity. Losing hair can lead to anxiety, depression, and social withdrawal. At Spital Clinic, we understand these challenges and offer supportive care to help you cope with hair loss, providing both medical and emotional support.
Men's hair loss, often due to male pattern baldness, is a common concern that can start as early as the 20s. It typically presents as a receding hairline or thinning on the crown. Our men's health GPs provide specialised care for men, offering treatments like finasteride and hair transplants, tailored to restore confidence and improve appearance.
Treatment for hair loss varies based on the cause and severity. For male and female pattern baldness, medications such as finasteride and minoxidil can slow hair loss and promote regrowth. These treatments must be used continuously to maintain results. Minoxidil is available for both men and women, while finasteride is prescribed only for men.
Other treatments include corticosteroid injections and creams for conditions like Alopecia Areata. Advanced options like hair transplants, where hair follicles are moved from one part of the scalp to another, provide more permanent solutions. Non-surgical treatments like light therapy and micro-needling can also stimulate hair growth.
We provide a comprehensive range of services, from private GP consultations and specialised men's and women's health care to advanced ultrasound scans and proactive health screenings, all within a reassuring and state-of-the-art environment.
You have a question about Hair Loss? We have an answer.
Hair loss can result from various factors including genetics, hormonal changes, medical conditions, and stress. Male and female pattern baldness, known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common type. Other causes include alopecia areata (an autoimmune condition), thyroid disorders, and nutritional deficiencies. Certain medications and hairstyling practices can also contribute to hair loss. If you're experiencing significant hair loss, consult your GP. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments.
While often associated with men, hair loss affects both genders. Women may experience female pattern hair loss, particularly after menopause. Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can cause temporary hair shedding. Women might also develop alopecia areata or experience hair loss due to styling damage. If you're a woman experiencing noticeable hair loss, don't hesitate to seek medical advice. Your GP can assess the cause and discuss treatment options tailored to your needs.
GPs diagnose hair loss through a combination of methods. They'll take a detailed medical history and perform a physical examination of your scalp. They may use a tool called a densitometer to assess hair density. Blood tests can check for underlying health conditions or nutritional deficiencies. In some cases, a scalp biopsy might be necessary. Your GP will explain the diagnostic process and what each test can reveal. They'll use this information to determine the cause of your hair loss and plan appropriate treatment.
Yes, severe stress can cause a type of hair loss called telogen effluvium. This condition pushes hair follicles into a resting phase, leading to increased shedding. The good news is that stress-induced hair loss is often reversible. Hair typically regrows once the stressful period ends. If you're experiencing hair loss due to stress, your GP can offer strategies for stress management. They might also recommend treatments to support hair regrowth during the recovery period.
While some causes of hair loss aren't preventable, you can take steps to maintain healthy hair. Eat a balanced diet rich in proteins, iron, and vitamins. Avoid harsh hair treatments and tight hairstyles that can damage follicles. Manage stress through relaxation techniques or exercise. If you have underlying health conditions, work with your GP to keep them under control. Your GP can provide personalised advice on preventing hair loss based on your individual risk factors.
Diet can indeed impact hair health and loss. Nutritional deficiencies, particularly in protein, iron, zinc, and vitamins B and D, can contribute to hair shedding. Crash diets or sudden weight loss can also trigger temporary hair loss. Maintaining a balanced diet supports healthy hair growth. If you're concerned about nutritional impacts on your hair, consult your GP. They can assess your diet, recommend appropriate changes, or suggest supplements if necessary.
Consult your GP if you're experiencing sudden or significant hair loss, develop bald patches, or if hair loss is affecting your emotional well-being. Other reasons to seek medical advice include scalp irritation, redness, or scaling accompanying hair loss. If you notice unusual patterns of hair loss or are concerned about medication side effects, don't hesitate to book an appointment. Your GP can provide a thorough evaluation and guide you towards appropriate treatment options.
Hair loss, particularly male and female pattern baldness (androgenetic alopecia), has a strong genetic component. It's influenced by multiple genes inherited from both parents. While genetic screening can identify some genes associated with hair loss, it's not typically used for diagnosis. Current genetic tests can't predict with certainty if you'll develop hair loss or its severity. Family history remains a more practical indicator. If you're concerned about genetic hair loss, discuss your family history with your genetic counsellor. They can assess your risk and recommend appropriate preventive measures or treatments based on your overall health profile.
According to verified reviews from platforms such as Doctify, TrustPilot and Google - 99% patients have a positive experience at Spital Clinic.
"Great experience. Frustratingly we had 3 NIPTs come back with no result so had to do 3 blood redraws but thanks to LPC’s persistence we finally got a result on the 4th draw. After the 3rd no result they also kindly offered us a free anomaly scan."
"I had a surprisingly positive experience. The most friendly and helpful staff, clean and beautiful premises. The visit was smooth and quick but never felt rushed and I was able to ask all the questions I had. Thanks so much!"
"The service was exceptional from the moment we booked to the moment we left the building post our appointment. The lovely colleagues at the main desk were great and approachable. They made the whole process very comforting."
"I really recommend this clinic, everything was smooth and perfect. All staff are helpful and our sonographer Miss Shaz is an expert on her job, she is very kind and explained everything that we asked. I am glad to choose LPC."
Our medical centre is at 36 Spital Square, E1 6DY, City of London.
