Excessive hair fall could be Telogen Effluvium
Blog post description.
Dr.Sujith Kumar karimbil
8/13/20232 min read
Introduction: Experiencing hair fall can be distressing, especially when it seems to occur excessively. One common cause of such hair loss is telogen effluvium. This condition, often triggered by various factors, leads to increased hair shedding. In this blog post, we'll delve into the causes of telogen effluvium and explore effective prevention strategies to help you regain and maintain healthy hair.
Understanding Telogen Effluvium: Telogen effluvium is a temporary hair loss condition characterized by an increased shedding of hair due to a disruption in the hair growth cycle. Normally, hair grows in a cyclic pattern, with a growth phase (anagen), a transitional phase (catagen), and a resting phase (telogen). During telogen, hair is shed to make way for new growth.
Causes of Telogen Effluvium:
Physical or Emotional Stress: High-stress events, such as surgery, illness, or emotional trauma, can shock the hair cycle, pushing a large number of hairs into the telogen phase simultaneously.
Nutritional Deficiencies: Inadequate intake of essential nutrients, such as iron, biotin, and vitamins, can disrupt the hair growth cycle.
Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations, often seen after childbirth, major surgery, or changes in birth control, can lead to temporary hair loss.
Medical Conditions: Chronic illnesses like thyroid disorders, autoimmune diseases, and certain infections can trigger telogen effluvium.
Medications: Some medications, such as those used in chemotherapy, anticoagulants, and beta-blockers, can lead to hair shedding as a side effect.
Prevention of Telogen Effluvium:
Stress Management: Incorporate stress-reduction techniques like meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and regular exercise into your routine to minimize its impact on your hair cycle.
Balanced Diet: Ensure you're consuming a well-rounded diet rich in proteins, vitamins (especially Biotin and Vitamin D), and minerals to support healthy hair growth.
Healthy Lifestyle: Get enough sleep, stay hydrated, and avoid crash diets to maintain optimal hair health.
Gentle Hair Care: Use mild, sulfate-free shampoos and avoid aggressive brushing or styling to prevent unnecessary hair breakage.
Medical Advice: If you suspect an underlying medical condition is causing your hair loss, consult a Dermatologist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Supplements: Under the guidance of a healthcare provider, consider supplements designed to support hair health, such as biotin and iron supplements.
Topical Treatments: Some over-the-counter topical treatments, like minoxidil, may help promote hair growth when used as directed.
Conclusion: Telogen effluvium can be distressing, but understanding its causes and adopting effective prevention strategies can make a significant difference in maintaining your hair's health. By managing stress, maintaining a balanced diet, and seeking medical advice when needed, you can minimize the impact of telogen effluvium and work towards healthier, fuller hair. Remember, consistent care and patience are key to achieving positive results.