There are a lot of things that can cause hair loss, which can range from hormonal changes to certain medications, but did you know that hair loss can be a sign of underlying health issues? Here are some health conditions that cause hair loss and how it affects hair growth:.

1. Hypothyroidism

Your thyroid gland is responsible for regulating the body’s metabolism and how much energy the body uses. If your thyroid gland is underactive, it can cause hypothyroidism. It can lead to fatigue, weight gain, and hair loss.

With hypothyroidism, the hair follicles become weak and brittle, which leads to hair loss. Hair growth can slow down, and the hair that grows back can be thin and fragile.

This condition can be treated with medication, but it is essential to undergo a thyroid function test to determine your thyroid levels.

2. Iron Deficiency Anemia

Iron is essential for healthy hair growth as it helps carry oxygen to the cells. If there is an iron deficiency in the body, the hair follicles become less efficient and brittle, leading to hair loss.

Iron deficiency anemia is a common cause of hair loss in women, especially during menstruation and pregnancy.

If you suspect that iron deficiency anemia could be the cause of your hair loss, consult a doctor who may perform a blood test to confirm whether you have this condition.

Treatment for anemia involves taking iron supplements and a diet rich in iron, such as leafy greens, red meat, and nuts.

3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder common in women and is characterized by the presence of cysts on the ovaries. Women with PCOS produce high levels of androgen hormones, such as testosterone, which can lead to hair loss.

PCOS can cause hair loss on the scalp and the body, including the face and arms. Treatment for PCOS involves lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and medication or hormone therapy.

4. Lupus

Lupus is a long-term autoimmune disease that can affect various organs in the body, including the skin. The disease can cause hair loss due to inflammation in the scalp. This scalp condition leads to scarring, which can cause permanent hair loss.

The best way to treat hair loss caused by lupus is to treat the disease itself. Lupus can be managed with medication that suppresses the immune system. However, it is essential to consult a doctor to determine the best treatment plan for lupus.

5. Diabetes

Diabetes, a condition characterized by high blood sugar levels, can cause hair loss. High blood sugar levels lead to inflammation and damage to the blood vessels that supply nutrients to the hair follicles, which can cause hair loss.

Diabetes can also cause peripheral neuropathy, a type of nerve damage that can lead to hair loss in the legs and hands. If you have diabetes, it is essential to manage your blood sugar levels to prevent hair loss and other complications.

Lifestyle changes like exercise, proper diet, and medication can help control diabetes.

6. Celiac Disease

Celiac disease is a digestive disorder that occurs when the body cannot tolerate gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye.

Celiac disease can lead to hair loss because it prevents the body from absorbing necessary nutrients, such as iron and vitamin D, necessary for hair growth.

In addition to hair loss, celiac disease can cause dryness and flakiness of the scalp. Treatment for celiac disease involves eliminating gluten from the diet and consuming gluten-free foods. With a proper diet, hair growth can improve over time.

7. Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes redness, itching, and flaking of the skin. The condition can also affect the scalp, leading to scaly patches.

The patches can cause hair loss due to the inflammation in the scalp, which can damage and weaken the hair follicles.

Treatment for psoriasis involves medication, topical treatments, and lifestyle changes. In some cases, biologic drugs may be used. If psoriasis is causing your hair loss, consult a doctor to determine the best course of action.

8. Stress and Anxiety

Stress and anxiety can cause hair loss. The stress hormone cortisol affects the hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss. Chronic stress can damage hair follicles, leading to thinning hair and bald patches.

The best ways to treat hair loss caused by stress and anxiety are to engage in activities that reduce stress, such as mindfulness meditation or yoga. Exercise, talk therapy, and medication can also be helpful in reducing stress levels.

9. Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune skin disease that causes patchy hair loss on the scalp. The condition occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the hair follicles, causing hair loss.

Alopecia areata can be treated with medication, immunotherapy, or phototherapy, but it is essential to consult a doctor to determine the best course of treatment for you.

10. Cancer

Treatment for cancer, such as chemotherapy and radiation therapy, can cause hair loss. Chemotherapy targets rapidly dividing cancer cells, but hair follicles also divide rapidly, leading to hair loss.

The hair loss caused by cancer treatment is usually temporary and begins to regrow after treatment is complete. However, hair growth can take some time.

If you are undergoing cancer treatment and worried about hair loss, consult your doctor, who can provide you with support and advice on how to manage the side effects.

Conclusion

Hair loss can be a sign of underlying health issues, and it is essential to identify the root cause and treat it promptly. Consult with a doctor if you experience sudden or extensive hair loss.

They will help determine the underlying cause and develop a treatment plan that suits your needs.