How to prepare for a video visit about Hair Loss (Androgenic Alopecia)

Audience: adult

Hair loss, especially androgenic alopecia (often called male or female pattern baldness), is a common condition that affects many adults worldwide. Preparing well for your video visit can help you and your healthcare provider understand your hair loss better and discuss possible treatments. During the visit, you will likely talk about your hair loss history, family history, and any other health issues. You may also be asked to show your scalp clearly on camera. This guide helps you get ready for your telemedicine appointment so you can make the most of your time with your provider. Remember, this information is for education and is not a diagnosis or treatment plan.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Sudden or patchy hair loss that appears quickly — seek urgent medical care.
• Scalp redness, swelling, pain, or open sores — get evaluated in person promptly.
• Hair loss accompanied by other symptoms like fever, weight loss, or severe fatigue — see a healthcare provider immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing hair loss history and symptoms.
• Reviewing family history of hair loss.
• Visual examination of scalp via video.
• Providing general advice on hair care and lifestyle.
• Recommending over-the-counter or prescription treatments when appropriate.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Diagnosing scalp infections or skin conditions needing lab tests.
• Performing physical scalp examinations or biopsies.
• Managing severe or sudden hair loss emergencies.
• Prescribing controlled substances without in-person evaluation.
• Providing surgical treatments such as hair transplants.

What is Androgenic Alopecia?

Androgenic alopecia is a common type of hair loss that happens due to genetics and hormones. It usually causes gradual thinning of hair on the scalp. In men, it often starts with a receding hairline or bald spots. In women, it usually causes overall thinning on the top of the head. It is not caused by infection or injury.

How Telemedicine Can Help

Through a video visit, your healthcare provider can review your hair loss pattern, ask about your medical and family history, and suggest possible next steps. You may receive advice on hair care, lifestyle changes, or treatments that could help. Telemedicine allows you to get expert guidance from home or wherever you are.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your provider will ask questions about when your hair loss started, how it has changed, and if anyone in your family has similar hair loss. They may ask about your diet, stress levels, medications, and other health conditions. You will be asked to show your scalp clearly on camera, so good lighting and a device with a camera are important.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Before your appointment, find a quiet, well-lit space with a good internet connection. Have a mirror handy to help show your scalp if needed. Write down any questions or concerns you have about your hair loss. Also, prepare a list of any medications or supplements you take.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you notice sudden or patchy hair loss, scalp pain, redness, swelling, or sores, you should seek in-person medical care promptly. These signs may indicate infections or other conditions that need a physical exam and possibly tests.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a quiet, well-lit room with good internet connection.
• Have a device with a working camera and microphone ready.
• Prepare a list of your hair loss symptoms and when they started.
• Gather information about your family history of hair loss.
• List all medications, supplements, and hair products you use.
• Write down any questions or concerns you want to discuss.
• Have a mirror nearby to help show your scalp if needed.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the treatment or advice given by your provider.
• Schedule follow-up appointments if recommended.
• Monitor your hair loss and note any changes or side effects.
• Maintain good hair and scalp care as advised.
• Seek in-person care if red flag symptoms develop.

FAQs

What causes androgenic alopecia?

Androgenic alopecia is mainly caused by genetic factors and the effect of hormones called androgens. It often runs in families and usually develops gradually over time.

Can telemedicine accurately diagnose hair loss?

Telemedicine can help your provider assess your hair loss pattern and history, which often is enough to suggest a diagnosis. However, some conditions may require an in-person exam or tests for a full diagnosis.

What treatments are available for androgenic alopecia?

Common treatments include topical medications like minoxidil, oral medications, and lifestyle changes. Your provider can discuss options suitable for you during your visit.

Should I wash my hair before the video visit?

It's helpful to have clean hair and scalp so your provider can see your scalp clearly during the video visit.

What if my hair loss is sudden or patchy?

Sudden or patchy hair loss may indicate other conditions and should be evaluated in person promptly. Telemedicine is not suitable for urgent or severe hair loss cases.

Sources

1. Hair Loss — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Androgenetic Alopecia — National Library of Medicine.
3. Hair Loss: Overview — Mayo Clinic.
4. Hair Loss (Alopecia) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional in-person medical care. If you have concerning symptoms or emergencies, please seek immediate medical attention.