Treating Thyroid Hair Loss Effectively
Are you losing hair and not sure why? You may need to have your thyroid checked. One of the earliest signs of a thyroid condition is often a change in the hair’s texture or an increased loss of hair. In some cases, a thyroid problem has been detected by a hairdresser before a doctor is even consulted. For this reason, if you notice a sudden hair loss or a change in your hair, you should see your doctor. Sudden hair loss can be scary and confusing, but with the proper treatment it can be slowed, or even stopped completely. You are not alone, and the best thing you can do is to inform yourself about thyroid hair loss.
Hair goes through stages of dormancy and growth. When there is a problem with the thyroid, a hormonal imbalance can cause the hair to become stalled in the dormant stage. If it remains dormant for a long enough time, it will die and fall out. As an increasing number of hairs get stuck in dormancy, the hair loss becomes visible.
Although thyroid problems can have some serious symptoms, hair loss is not medically threatening. However, any woman who has experienced hair loss knows that it can be embarrassing and emotionally taxing. A doctor should be sympathetic to this fact. It is a good idea to read up on thyroid hair loss, and thyroid problems in general, before you going to the doctor. That way, you will know what tests are necessary for a proper diagnosis. The visit should be a conversation between you and your doctor, rather than a lecture from the doctor. If you do not feel confident after the visit, you may want to get a second opinion.
If you are currently under drug treatment for a thyroid condition and are still losing hair, the drug could be the problem. Synthroid (levothyroxine), a common thyroid drug, has been known to cause hair loss in some patients. Another possibility is that your treatment needs to be increased. You may need a higher dose or an additional drug.
Proper diagnosis and treatment of the thyroid condition are the first steps in combating thyroid hair loss. Once these steps have been achieved, you should take measures towards the growth and strengthening of the hair you have.
Many patients have found vitamins to be an effective way of restoring hair after thyroid hair loss. Vitamins B, C, and E all nourish the hair, skin and fingernails. You can take them in supplement form, and can also massage the scalp with oils containing these vitamins.
When you are trying to re-grow your hair, it is important to be gentle with it. Avoid harsh chemicals. People who are trying to combat hair loss should never dye their hair. You should also try not to put too much heat on the hair. Stay away from curling and straightening irons and blow dryers, as they can rob the hair of its natural moisture. Be careful not to comb and brush the hair too aggressively, and avoid tight ponytails and other hairstyles that put unnecessary stress on the hair.
Thyroid hair loss is understandably distressing, but it is definitely treatable. Remember that it is not your fault, and you do not have to handle it alone. Keep yourself educated and informed, and take the proper steps for diagnosis and treatment.
