Hair Loss: Don't Rule Out a Thyroid Condition
If you suffer from hair loss you might want to make sure that
your problem is not caused by a thyroid condition. Although the
usual reasons for hair loss are genetic predetermination,
hormonal changes, or certain cancer treatments, thyroid hair
loss should also be considered.
There are three types of hair loss; thyroid hair loss,
autoimmune alopecia, and male pattern hair loss. Thyroid hair
loss can manifest in both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. In
those with thyroid hair loss, there will be a general thinning
of the hair, without the bald patches characteristic of male
pattern baldness.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include fatigue, dry skin, abnormal
sensitivity to cold, constipation and depression. If you one or
more of these symptoms along with loss of hair, think about
getting tested for thyroid problems.
Synthroid is commonly prescribed in hypothyroidism; this
medication is effective however, it can produce thyroid hair
loss as a side effect for some people. Your hair loss may be due
to Synthroid, so speak to your doctor about the possibility.
Thyroid hair loss can also occur if you are under-treated. A
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone level of around 1-2 is optimal for a
large number of people who are suffering from hypothyroidism
with no hair falling.
Evening primrose oil supplements are one alternative therapy
that some have found to be useful in alleviating thyroid hair
loss. Aromatherapy is another which is reported to be effective.
Essential oils of thyme, cedar wood oil, lavender, and rosemary
can be blended and applied to the scalp to help encourage hair
growth.
Ayurveda medicines such as Bhingaraj oil or brahmi oil have also
been used to treat hair loss due to thyroid conditions. Both
these oils applied to the scalp continuously for at least 3
months are said to aid hair growth. Growth of hair will also be
aided by supplementation with the ayurvedic herbs amla and
ashwagandha.
The ultimate remedy for thyroid hair loss is hair
transplantation. Tiny hair plugs are removed from the scalp's
back or side and then implanted to bald portions of the scalp.
Results can be seen after several months. This procedure is
expensive and is not always covered by insurance providers, but
can be worth every penny for those suffering from this
discouraging condition.