(By Lynne Sheldon of LiveStrong.com) 
Overview
Most people lose over 50 hairs a day, but several factors can contribute to more rapid hair loss. Thinning hair is often the result of age or a nutrient deficiency, while breaking hair results from harsh styling or improper care. A doctor can help determine which type of loss you are experiencing and discuss treatment options with you.

Symptoms
Thinning hair detaches at the root and falls out all over the scalp or in patches. Your hair growth naturally slows as you age, and this can result in loss or an overall reduction in the amount of hair you have. Breaking hair, on the other hand, snaps off on your scalp's surface or anywhere along your hair shaft, leaving the root in place. It occurs most often on those with dried-out hair that is prone to split ends. Your hair's growth rate may slow just because your tresses break off before you can grow your hair longer.

Causes
While age can cause your hair to thin, a vitamin or mineral deficiency can also lead to thinning hair, as can certain types of medications, according to the Huntington College of Health Sciences. Scalp conditions like ringworm or psoriasis may also result in thinning hair or loss. Conversely, trauma is the most common cause of breaking hair. Rolling your hair too tightly in curlers, braiding or pulling your locks into tight styles can cause them to weaken and break, according to the American Academy of Dermatology. Additionally, overstyling with hot tools, coloring your hair and using a chemical straightener can sap your strands of moisture and lead to breakage.

Treatments
Talk to a physician about your thinning hair. Eat a balanced diet that consists of the correct amount of nutrients, but do not add any supplements or foods before discussing them with your doctor. Also ask her about treatments for any scalp conditions you experience, as well as prescription products that might increase your hair's thickness. Use mild, moisturizing hair care products to maintain the health of the hair you have.

If you have breaking hair, you may also discuss this with your doctor, but topical treatment might offer some relief. Avoid tight hairstyles and apply a heat-protecting spray before you use any hot tools. Have a professional color or chemically straighten your hair rather than attempting these harsh treatments on your own, and limit the process to once every two months. Use nourishing shampoos and conditioners designed to strengthen your hair from the roots to the tip and avoid blow drying as much as possible, allow your hair to air-dry to discourage further breakage.

Additional Consideration
According to DermNet NZ, both breaking and thinning hair can be the result of a condition known as trichotillomania, which is characterized by a compulsive pulling, tugging or breaking of your hair. Speak with a health care provider if you feel you suffer from this condition. Your hair will typically grow back after the trauma subsides and you replace your hair-pulling with alternative habits.

Warning
If you experience severe or sudden hair thinning or breaking, seek medical attention. You could have an underlying medical condition or a severe nutrient deficiency.