teen hair loss

I have a 17 yr old daughter who has been experience thinning hair for the past 6 months-year. She has polycystic ovary syndrome for which she takes Metformin, spironolactone and sprintec (birth control). She also takes sertraline. Could any or all of these be a factor in her hair loss? What action should we take to control the hair loss and possibly thicken her hair back up?

[Dr. Kokil Mathur]

Hi!
Polycystic ovary could itself be the cause of hair loss. This is usually do to hormonal imbalance. Correcting this imbalance can prevent hair loss. Please consult her gynecologist regarding this.
Another common cause is dandruff. Iron deficiency anemia could be another cause. Correcting the cause will help in re-growth of lost hair. Do discuss this with her doctor. Take care!

The medical advice given should not be considered a substitute for medical care provided by a doctor who can examine you. The advice may not be completely correct for you as the doctor cannot examine you and does not know your complete medical history. Hence this reply to your post should only be considered as a guiding line and you must consult your doctor at the earliest for your medical problem.