Telogen effluvium is the name for excessive hair shedding greater than 150-200 hairs per day. Medications, hormonal abnormalities, low iron, severe illness or trauma, and scalp irritation are just a few of the possible underlying causes that can start a telogen effluvium. If you have excessive hair shedding, it is important to get a thorough evaluation to try to determine the underlying cause. Most treated telogen effluviums will resolve around 6 months after starting. Treatments include topical treatments to reduce scalp irritation if present, to help shut down the shedding and promote regrowth. Oral medications are sometimes used to correct any underlying internal abnormalities.