The thyroid gland is a small butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck. Its primary role involves regulating metabolism and other bodily functions by secreting thyroid hormones. When the gland produces an insufficient or excessive amount of these hormones, thyroid disorder arises.
Hypothyroidism, characterized by an underactive thyroid, causes various symptoms, including weight gain and persistent fatigue. Whereas hyperthyroidism, denoting an overactive thyroid, presents symptoms ranging from weight loss to heightened nervousness.
Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can negatively affect hair health, leading to dryness, brittleness, thinning, and hair loss on both the scalp and body.
Explore how thyroid and hair loss are linked, how thyroid problems contribute to hair loss, and what practical tips are for hair-falling thyroid problems.
The thyroid hormone is essential for hair follicle development and maintenance. Follicles, located beneath the skin, rely on adequate thyroid hormone levels. Prolonged hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can result in hair loss.
Hair growth follows a cyclical pattern, with roots producing hair before entering a resting phase. Fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels can disrupt this cycle, leading to telogen effluvium. This condition causes premature hair shedding, affecting a significant portion of the hair on your scalp.
Individuals with one autoimmune condition, like Hashimoto's thyroiditis, are more prone to developing others, such as autoimmune alopecia or alopecia areata, causing diffuse or patchy hair loss, respectively.
Moreover, hair loss may be a side effect of particular antithyroid medications prescribed to manage an overactive thyroid.
Hair loss associated with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism often progresses gradually without noticeable patches or bald spots. Under normal circumstances, people shed hair regularly. But when thyroid function is disturbed, hair replenishment can be hindered, leading to visible hair thinning.
The National Library of Medicine (NIH) states that hair loss is observed in about 50% of individuals with hyperthyroidism and 33% with hypothyroidism.
Here are some of the symptoms of hair loss in individuals with an underactive thyroid to watch out for:
Diffuse Thinning:
Hair loss due to thyroid usually affects the entire scalp uniformly, decreasing overall hair density and volume.
Increased Shedding:
One of the common symptoms of excessive hair shedding during everyday activities like brushing, washing, or styling.
Changes in Hair Texture:
Thyroid disorders can lead to changes in hair texture, such as thinning strands or increased coarseness.
Hair Loss on Other Body Parts:
In some cases, hair loss caused by thyroid problems can extend beyond the scalp to the other body parts.
While hair loss is a common symptom of thyroid problems, there are effective strategies to manage it and improve your overall well-being:
Maintain Thyroid health:
Ensure regular monitoring and proper management of your thyroid condition with medication and follow-ups with your healthcare provider.
Focus on Nutrient-Rich Foods:
Adopt a nutrient-rich diet with adequate levels of iron, zinc, selenium, and vitamins A, C, and D to support healthy hair growth.
Follow Gentle Hair Care Practices:
Use mild shampoos and conditioners, avoid harsh chemicals and heat styling, and opt for loose hairstyles to minimize stress on the hair follicles.
Consider Essential Oils:
To promote scalp health, stimulate blood circulation to the scalp with gentle massages using essential oils rich in vitamins and essential fatty acids, like coconut or jojoba oil.
Stress Management:
Chronic stress can exacerbate hair loss. Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing to help manage stress levels.
If you are looking to protect yourself against thyroid-related hair loss and attain optimal hair health, Mane Center for Advanced Hair Restoration in Chevy Chase is your ultimate destination. Under the guidance of Dr. Douglas Burka, who leads the field in Chevy Chase, MD, our expert team provides safe and effective hair loss treatments customized to maintain your hair's health.
Contact us today for lasting hair improvement and revitalized confidence.
