Thyroid dysfunction is extremely common and can significantly impact hair health, often leading to hair loss. This is something we see every day at our hair loss clinic in Birmingham. Here we would like to provide you with an overview at how different thyroid conditions affect hair loss and the available treatment options.
Common Thyroid Conditions and Their Impact on Hair Loss
1. Hypothyroidism (Under-active Thyroid)
Underactive thyroid is a very common condition, particularly in middle-aged women. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough thyroid hormones, impacting the balance of Normal metabolic rate.
Impact on Hair
Hair loss associated with in under active thyroid often manifests as diffuse thinning across the scalp rather than patches. Hair may become dry, brittle, and prone to breakage. Eyebrows, especially the outer third, may also thin.
Thyroid hormones are essential for the development and maintenance of hair follicles, as well as regulating body metabolism. A deficiency in these thyroid hormones slows the metabolism, affecting the hair growth cycle, often pushing hair follicles into the resting phase (telogen) prematurely, leading to increased shedding.
2. Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
Overactive thyroid isn’t as common as underactive but can still cause concern. This condition occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.
Impact on Hair
Similar to hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism can cause diffuse hair thinning and shedding. The hair may become fine and soft. An excess of thyroid hormones accelerates the metabolism and disrupts the normal hair growth cycle, also causing hair follicles to enter the resting phase prematurely.
3. Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis
This is a autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism. This can cause hair loss similarly to that seen in hypothyroidism, as the thyroid gland becomes underactive. The autoimmune attack on the thyroid disrupts hormone production, affecting hair growth.
This is an autoimmune disorder causing hyperthyroidism. This can cause diffuse hair thinning due to the overproduction of thyroid hormones. Similar to other hyperthyroid conditions, Graves’ Disease disrupts the normal hair growth cycle.
Treatment Options
Hypothyroidism
Levothyroxine
A synthetic thyroid hormone (T4) is the most common treatment. It helps normalise thyroid hormone levels, which can subsequently improve hair growth and reduce hair loss.
Diet and Supplements
Adequate intake of iodine, selenium, and zinc, which are crucial for thyroid function, may also support hair health.
Hyperthyroidism
Antithyroid Medications
Drugs like methimazole or propylthiouracil (PTU) reduce thyroid hormone production and can help normalise hair growth.
Radioactive Iodine Therapy
This treatment destroys part of the thyroid gland to reduce hormone production, often leading to a need for subsequent hypothyroidism treatment.
Surgery
In severe cases, partial or total thyroidectomy might be necessary, followed by hormone replacement therapy to maintain normal hormone levels.
Autoimmune Thyroid Disorders
Managing the Underlying Condition
Treating the underlying thyroid dysfunction (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism) often alleviates hair loss.
Topical Treatments
Minoxidil can sometimes be used to stimulate hair growth while managing thyroid hormone levels.
A popular regenerative therapy used to biological stimulate gait follicles.
General Hair Care Tips
Gentle Hair Care
Use gentle shampoos and conditioners, avoid excessive heat styling, and minimise chemical treatments to reduce hair breakage.
Healthy Diet
Ensure a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair health, such as biotin, iron, and vitamins A, C, D, and E.
Monitoring and Follow-up
Regular follow-up with your GP or specialist is crucial for monitoring thyroid hormone levels and adjusting treatments as needed. Effective management of thyroid conditions can significantly improve hair health and reduce hair loss.
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