Of course, a thyroid illness is not the only reason for sudden hair loss; infection, major changes in diet, hormonal changes - even stress, can all bring this on. However, if you do suddenly start losing hair at an abnormal rate, then you should take rapid action to investigate the cause, as it could turn out to be something quite significant.
Although there are other side effects from thyroid disease, such as severe weight fluctuation, fatigue, trouble concentrating and trouble sleeping, for many the hair loss is the most disconcerting. The good news is that treatments are available for the hair loss. The priority is to correct the problem with the thyroid. Blood tests can determine if the thyroid is producing too many or too few hormones, and medication can be prescribed to help bring the hormones into balance.
Patients who make changes to their diets can also see improvements in hair quality which help lessen the effects of the hair loss. A diet rich in protein and iron can help the appearance of hair, while adding healthy sources of Omega 3 can help strengthen hair.
Other patients choose to handle the hair loss associated with thyroid disease by changing their hair style. For men, a short cut can lessen the effects and make it seem as if it is a deliberate choice. For women, a shorter or layered cut can help give hair more body, and subtle highlights can make hair look fuller and richer.
Hypothyroidism should be suspected when you are experiencing some of the following symptoms: fatigue, muscle weakness, weight gain , appetite loss, hair loss, coarse, dry hair, dry/rough skin, recurrent infections, abnormal menses, inability to tolerate cold, decreased sex drive, depression, memory loss, muscle cramps, drooping and/or swollen eyes.
While thyroid disease and hair loss can affect anyone, there are certain factors which make some individuals more susceptible than others. Women are more likely than men to have thyroid problems, especially women who have undergone dramatic hormonal changes such as those associated with pregnancy or menopause. Individuals who consume a large amount of soy in their diet are at an increased risk, as are individuals who are under an extreme amount of stress.
Thyroid disease is not something that should be taken lightly. Anyone who is experiencing symptoms should be seen by a doctor. The most common symptoms are hair loss; rapid, unexplained weight gain or loss; fatigue; constipation; and, for women, irregular menstrual cycles. Thyroid issues are treatable, but if left untreated can get worse and cause other problems. It is more than just handfuls of hair in the shower. It is an improperly functioning thyroid and needs to be treated.
Although there are other side effects from thyroid disease, such as severe weight fluctuation, fatigue, trouble concentrating and trouble sleeping, for many the hair loss is the most disconcerting. The good news is that treatments are available for the hair loss. The priority is to correct the problem with the thyroid. Blood tests can determine if the thyroid is producing too many or too few hormones, and medication can be prescribed to help bring the hormones into balance.
Patients who make changes to their diets can also see improvements in hair quality which help lessen the effects of the hair loss. A diet rich in protein and iron can help the appearance of hair, while adding healthy sources of Omega 3 can help strengthen hair.
Other patients choose to handle the hair loss associated with thyroid disease by changing their hair style. For men, a short cut can lessen the effects and make it seem as if it is a deliberate choice. For women, a shorter or layered cut can help give hair more body, and subtle highlights can make hair look fuller and richer.
Hypothyroidism should be suspected when you are experiencing some of the following symptoms: fatigue, muscle weakness, weight gain , appetite loss, hair loss, coarse, dry hair, dry/rough skin, recurrent infections, abnormal menses, inability to tolerate cold, decreased sex drive, depression, memory loss, muscle cramps, drooping and/or swollen eyes.
While thyroid disease and hair loss can affect anyone, there are certain factors which make some individuals more susceptible than others. Women are more likely than men to have thyroid problems, especially women who have undergone dramatic hormonal changes such as those associated with pregnancy or menopause. Individuals who consume a large amount of soy in their diet are at an increased risk, as are individuals who are under an extreme amount of stress.
Thyroid disease is not something that should be taken lightly. Anyone who is experiencing symptoms should be seen by a doctor. The most common symptoms are hair loss; rapid, unexplained weight gain or loss; fatigue; constipation; and, for women, irregular menstrual cycles. Thyroid issues are treatable, but if left untreated can get worse and cause other problems. It is more than just handfuls of hair in the shower. It is an improperly functioning thyroid and needs to be treated.
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