What medical conditions might be causing it? If I get these treated will it stop?  

Hair loss can by a symptom of a number of possible underlying medical conditions such as an underactive thyroid, anaemia, hormonal disorders including oestrogen disorders, an ovarian tumor, or even lupus. Lupus is a skin and connective tissue disorder, which causes the body’s own immunity to fight against hair growth.

If you are diagnosed with one of these underlying medical issues (and the earlier the diagnosis, the better) then in many cases you will be able to seek treatment and the hair loss, as a result, can be reversed.

Could something lacking in my diet be the blame?  

Hair is made up of Keratin, which is a natural protein. Making sure your diet is high in protein can therefore help to keep hair strong, looking shiny and healthy. Try to incorporate meat, fish and eggs in your diet and you may gradually notice an improvement.

What about my lifestyle? Too much swimming or washing?

There is a common misconception that washing hair frequently is bad. On the contrary, hair needs to be washed regularly to keep it clean and healthy. Evidence suggest that using SLS (Sodium Lauryl Sulphate – a common chemical found in shampoos) free shampoo, like aloe vera, can play role in preventing hair loss. Regular conditioning is also good for the hair as it will make it softer, but try to make sure you apply it to the hair shafts and not the scalp.

Exercise caution when using hair dyes and if you wear hair extensions, try not to use these excessively, as they will pull the hair and weaken it. If you continue to cause stress to the hair by over-styling, braiding or using hair extensions, then this could lead to traction alopecia, which is a condition brought about by environmental damage done to the hair.

Try not to scratch you scalp with your fingernails either, as this will also traumatise the hair.