If you do feel you are experiencing any of the symptoms talked about on the Information tab, the first step you must take, if you haven't already, is to see your Doctor. This is important as some hair loss symptoms may be a signal of other health concerns, such as thyroid problems and iron deficiency, and your Doctor can authorise certain tests to identify or eliminate such health issues.

Please remember that not all General Practitioners are experts on hair loss. Once your Doctor has completed any tests and ruled out other heath matters, your Doctor will be able to refer you to see a Consultant Dermatologist at your local hospital with a Dermatology Department. Be aware that this referral and subsequent appointment can take up to 16 weeks.

It's ok, I know 16 weeks is a long time in hair loss terms, should your condition deteriorate significantly, go back to your Doctor.

Before you attend your appointment with the Consultant Dermatologist, try and take some time to write down some questions you would like to ask. It is useful to write the questions down as during the appointment, you will find it much easier to refer to notes.

If you can, take someone with you, a friend, your Mum, your partner, huband, wife - anyone who will be able to help you to remember what is said.

Also, be prepared to answer questions, such as, When did the hair loss start? How much hair have you lost? How much hair are you losing daily?

Your Consultant should be able to outline any treatments that he or she might be prescribe. Although there are some treatments available, please remember that there are no hard and fast cures for hair loss. Some treatments might work for some, but not for others.

I appreciate that isn't a very easy thing to hear, but there are some charlatans out there who will try and take advantage of you in your desperation and take your money for their 'miracle cure' - please don't do it - there is no such thing. I agree with using natural products as they certainly won't do you or your hair any harm, as long as they are affordable. My yardstick has always been, if you can afford something, without having to go without your favourite things, then try it. But please get in touch for some advice from me or one the fantastic support groups before spending your hard earned cash.

Sorry, I digress, back to the Consultant.

Once your Consultant has determined whether a treatment plan is the way forward, and depending on the extent of your hair loss, you can speak with the Consultant about hair replacement - a wig or a hair piece. Most hospitals have an agreement with a local hairdresser or wig supplier to provide wigs and hair pieces for their hair loss patients. Some hospitals even hold a wig clinic on a regular basis although most hospitals have different protocols when it comes to the supply of wigs. You will need to obtain this information, before leaving your appointment with the Consultant. Your Consultant might not be able to give you this information, however, the Dermatology Department should have the relevant details or be able to direct you accordingly.

On leaving the Dermatology Department, you will probably be overwhelmed with the experience. You will probably have heard lots of information and not necessarily be able to digest everything you have been told. That's why it is always a good idea to go with someone.

I wish I could make it easier for you, just remember you are not alone and certainly not the only one who has ever been through this.

We, who have been here before, are here to help.