It's still good to consider prescription and over-the-counter drugs because many types of medications can cause hair loss, even if you have been taking the drug for a long time.
Sometimes an underlying medical illness is the cause of hair loss. For example, thyroid problems -- both an overactive and underactive thyroid gland -- can cause hair loss.
Symptoms of an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism):
- Feeling jittery or anxious
- Weight loss
- Heat intolerance
- Racing or irregular heart beat (palpitations)
- Insomnia
- Tremor
Symptoms of an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism):
- Weight gain
- Feeling sluggish
- Cold intolerance
- A slower-than-usual heart rate
- Dry skin
Does either of these sets of symptoms apply to you?