Hair Loss Due To Thyroid

Ever had that sinking feeling when you run your fingers through your hair and notice more strands than usual clinging to your hand? It’s like your hair has a disappearing act going on, and you’re left wondering, “What’s wrong, and how can I stop it?” Well, the reason for this might be associated to your thyroid gland. Yes, that’s right! Hair loss and thyroid issues often go hand in hand. Read on to understand the connection between thyroid and hair loss.

Link Between Thyroid Disease and Hair Loss

The thyroid hormone plays an essential role in the development and maintenance of hair follicles that are small pockets under the skin from which hair grows. Severe or prolonged hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism may result in hair loss. When the body has excess or too little thyroid hormone, it can cause telogen effluvium. This is a scalp disorder where large amounts of a person’s hair might fall out, but it is often temporary, and the hair usually grows back.

For those suffering from one type of autoimmune condition, they are more likely to develop another condition that can cause hair loss. For instance, people with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis may also develop autoimmune alopecia, which results in diffuse hair loss.

Hair loss is also a possible side effect of some antithyroid drugs prescribed to treat an overactive thyroid.

Lupus erythematosus and polycystic ovary syndrome, which are related to thyroid disorders, can also cause thyroid-related hair loss.

Thyroid hair loss or thinning can also be due to certain medications used to treat thyroid conditions, such as Carbimazole and Propylthiouracil. Anti-thyroid medications are used to treat hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms of Thyroid-related Hair Loss

Losing around 50-100 strands of hair in a day is normal. But your hair will become thinner if you suffer from hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Here are some symptoms of thyroid-related hair loss:

• Thinning of hair all over the scalp

• Circular bald patches or bald spots in discrete areas of the scalp

• Loss of hair on outer sides of eyebrows

• Change in hair texture. If you have hypothyroidism, the hair may become coarse or dry, whereas in hyperthyroidism, your hair will become extra soft.

However, there’s no need to worry because hair loss caused due to thyroid conditions is temporary. Once your thyroid hormone levels become normal, hair loss will be reversed.

Causes

Our body uses thyroid hormones for energy and proper functioning of organs and muscles. If thyroid gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormones, you will suffer from hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism respectively. Having either of the two conditions can cause hair loss as thyroid hormones help develop and maintain hair follicles. Autoimmune disorders due to thyroid dysfunction can also lead to hair loss.

Remedies & Lifestyle changes that can help

Along with medications, different home remedies & certain lifestyle changes can slow hair loss or regenerate hair growth. This includes:

• Boost Your Iron

First up, check your iron levels as low ferritin, which is associated with your iron stores may contribute to patterned hair loss. Consider having your iron and ferritin tested and supplementing as your doctor suggests.

• Treat Nutritional Deficiencies

Besides iron, certain vitamins and minerals like B-7 (biotin), zinc, copper, vitamins C, E, and A, and coenzyme Q10 play a role in hair health. A good multivitamin might help boost your iron stores but remember to consult your doctor before starting any supplementation.

• Eat a Balanced Diet

Eating a diet of whole foods is a key to good health. If you’re being treated for hypothyroidism and want to eat calcium rich foods then try timing them at least 4 hours after taking thyroid medication for better absorption. Avoid processed foods, sugar, red meat, and fried stuff as they may cause an inflammatory response. Caffeine and alcohol may contribute as well. Inflammation may worsen your thyroid symptoms, including hair loss.

• Consume Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Ginger and turmeric are anti-inflammatory foods that may improve endocrine function. Your thyroid is part of the endocrine system, so supporting it may help with symptoms of thyroid disorders. You can toss them into your everyday diet, from stir-fries to smoothies, or talk to your health expert about supplements.

• Consider Herbal Remedies

Some alternative medicine practices use herbs to tackle hair loss from conditions like alopecia. But here’s the catch: always consult your doctor before trying herbal therapies.

• Essential Oils

While research is a bit limited in this area, some plant extracts may reduce hair loss and boost hair density. This includes eucalyptus oil, Arnica montana, Lavandula agustifolia, and Rosmarinus officinalis. Remember, all essential oils do not give the same results and can have side effects.

• Watch Iodine Intake

If you have an autoimmune thyroid disorder, keep an eye on your iodine intake. Too much iodine can throw your thyroid levels off track, potentially worsening hair loss. Avoid going overboard on iodine-rich foods like kelp and seaweed.

• Treat Your Hair Gently

Avoid tight hairstyles like buns, ponytails, and braids that pull on your hair, and opt for a wide-toothed comb instead of harsh brushes.

• Have Patience

Remember, it takes time for hair to regrow. So, have patience and if required ask your doctor about counselling or support groups where you can meet people going through similar situations.

With the right mix of self-care, nutrition, and medical guidance, you can help reverse hair loss related to thyroid conditions and get back a healthy mane.