– Falling out of the hair is a frequent sequel of acute diseases, especially fevers. But then the loss is only temporary, and it grows again when convalescence is complete. Early loss of hair is often constitutional and hereditary, and sometimes it is due to affection of the hair bulbs by disease. Ringworm rarely attacks the scalp of adults, though it does occur on the face and body. There is, however, a disease in which the hair falls out in spots (Alopecia areata) which is not the same disease as ringworm, and is not definitely known to be parasitic though generally considered to be so. As shown by Burnett, both Alopecia areata and ringworm are constitutional and allied to the tubercular diathesis. Usually the hair grows again as vigorously as before.
General Treatment.-With most people the scalp secretes oily matter enough to keep the hair glossy and soft, and in this case there is no need for hair-grease of any kind. The head should be washed with soap once every two or three weeks, and oftener if the secretion of the sebaceous glands is very profuse. But too frequent washing impoverishes the hair. When the hair falls off rapidly, and is not replaced, the following hair-wash will be found of great use. Take of
Oil of almonds one ounce;
Olive oil one ounce;
Strong liquor ammoniae one drachm;
Tincture of cantharides half drachm;
Essence of bergamotte ten drops;
Spirit of wine two ounces;
Distilled water to six ounces;
A little of the wash to be rubbed into the hair roots every night.
Medicines.-(Two or three times a day.)
China 3.
-When the hair falls out from debilitating causes.
Mercurius 6.
-From profuse perspiration.
Hepar 6.
-In chronic gouty headache with sensitiveness of the scalp.
Kali. c. 6.
-When the hair is dry and feels like hay.
Ac. phos.
-After depressing emotions.
