Thyroid conditions occur either when your thyroid gland doesn't produce enough or produces too much of hormones.
There are two types of thyroidism. One is Hypothyroidism and the other is Hyperthyroidism.
Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroidism can show symptoms from weight gain to fatigue and hyperthyroidism from weight loss to nervousness.
Thyroid hormones and hair loss
Your hair follicles follow a natural cycle of hair growth and resting phases. At any given time, most of your hair is growing while only a small portion of it is resting. But when the cycle is affected by any cause too much hair rests at the same time hindering the growth. This results in hair loss, thinning hair or even baldness.
When there is too much thyroid hormone, the hair on your head can become fine, with thinning hair all over the scalp. When there is too little of this hormone, there can be hair loss, not just on the scalp, but also anywhere on the body.
Symptoms of Thyroid Disease
Any type of thyroid disease can cause a number of different symptoms. In addition to hair loss or thinning hair, be aware of these other symptoms:
*Changes in mood, such as anxiety, irritability, and increased nervousness
*Being unable to tolerate hot temperatures or cold temperatures
*Insomnia and sleeping too much
*Weight changes — either weight loss or weight gain
*Abnormal menstruation
*Pain or weakness in the muscles
*Dryness in the hair or skin
*Cognitive impairment, such as having trouble paying attention, remembering, and concentrating
Possible medications include:
Your doctor will monitor your thyroid levels while you’re on medication. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. With treatment, hair growth may be noticeable within several months. Be aware that the new hair growth may differ in color or texture from your original hair.
levothyroxine (hypothyroidism)
propylthiouracil and methimazole (hyperthyroidism)
beta blockers (hyperthyroidism)
Natural treatments and home remedies
Along with medication, there are different home remedies you may try to slow hair loss or regenerate hair growth.
Treat nutritional deficiencies
Nutritional deficiencies may contribute to hair loss even without a thyroid condition. Specifically, researchers explain that levels of the following may play a role in hair retention and hair loss:
Vitamins B-7 (biotin) and B complex
zinc
copper
iron
vitamins C, E, and A
coenzyme Q10
A multivitamin may help boost your stores. Beware that too much supplementation may lead to hair thinning.
Eat well
Eating a diet of whole foods is key for your health.f you eat foods rich in calcium and are being treated for hypothyroidism, try timing them at least four hours after your levothyroxine for the best absorption.
Processed foods, such as sugars, red meat, and fried foods, may cause an inflammatory response. Caffeine and alcohol may contribute as well. Inflammation may worsen your thyroid symptoms, including hair loss.
*Add 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.
*Watch iodine intake
People with autoimmune thyroid disorders should watch their iodine intake. The body uses iodine to make thyroid hormone, so too much may lead to imbalances.
Treat your hair with care:
Avoid pulling hair into tight braids, buns, or ponytails.
Resist twisting or pulling your hair.
Use a wide-toothed comb versus harsher brushes when loosening knots.
Changing your routine up a bit may help you from pulling out hair before it would otherwise naturally fall out.
Have patience
It may take several months to notice regrowth. While this may be frustrating, you may consider wearing a wig or other head covering in the meantime.
Emotional support is also important, so ask your doctor about counseling or support groups where you can meet people going through similar situations.
The takeaway
Before attempting to treat your hair loss at home, speak with your doctor. Thyroid conditions generally don’t lead to hair loss until they are more severe.
Hair loss may also be the symptom of another underlying medical issue. You may need medication along with home remedies to see regrowth and to treat other symptoms you’re experiencing. With proper treatment, you should see fuller hair within a few months.
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