While you might typically associate hair loss with men, it is also a common issue among women. Research indicates that roughly 33% of women will experience some form of hair loss during their lifetime, with the occurrence increasing with age and after menopause. Hair loss can be tied to a number of causes, including hormonal shifts such as PCOD (polycystic ovarian disease), metabolic dysfunction such as diabetes and fatty liver, nutritional deficiencies such as low iron, low B vitamins, or poor protein intake, and high levels of stress.
Hair loss can also be a clear indicator for heart disease and increased risk for metabolic issues. Knowing about hair loss, its causes, and ultimately how to prevent it is vital, because every woman deserves to know what steps to take to keep the hair she wants and loves. This week on Fox 17, Dr. Bitner shares how being aware of the root causes of hair loss can help you avoid it and keep those luscious locks longer.
Taking care of your mental health can help you keep your hair. If you’ve ever lost hair, you’re likely familiar with the anxiety, depression, and poor self-image that comes with it. However, many are unaware that these issues can cause hair loss as well. There is an area in the brain that serves as the relay between the stress system and the immune system, and prolonged high stress can cause the immune system to wrongly attack cells including hair follicles. If you have mental health concerns or high stress that’s difficult to shake, there’s no better time than now to see a mental health provider and get help.
Hormone levels – both high and low – play a massive role in hair loss. Hair loss from hormone changes happens more often when there is excess estrogen for long periods of time, with a condition called polycystic ovarian disease (PCOD). With PCOD, the ovary makes high levels of estrogen which can be deposited into fat cells and then transformed into free testosterone. This often leads to male pattern hair loss, with frontline recession and a central bald spot. This can also cause male pattern hair growth on the chin and upper lip. Hair loss from PCOD can also be accompanied by cystic acne, abnormal weight gain, heavy irregular periods, and even infertility.
Hair loss can also occur due to low levels of estrogen from menopause or in the few months after giving birth. While hair loss after having a baby usually resolves itself over time, hair loss from menopause often requires medication to maintain healthy hair growth. Thyroid dysfunction – such as irregular T4 levels – can also cause hair loss, including in the eyebrows. Bottom line, if you’re experiencing hair loss, make sure you get your ovarian and thyroid hormone levels evaluated.
Like many other aspects of health, nutrition makes a huge difference. When it comes to one’s diet, the most common causes of hair loss include low iron. This can be the result of poor intake, high loss due to a heavy menstrual period or GI bleeding, low B vitamin levels, low zinc, or low Vitamin D. Even micronutrients such as selenium, copper, and Vitamin A can also play a role. Protein is also incredibly important, as inadequate calories from protein deprive your hair follicles with the nutrients they need to maintain good growth levels.
Jane was 37 and at a high risk of hair loss due to multiple health factors. In her 20s, she had PCOD-associated obesity and regularly heavy menstrual periods. As a result of her low iron and high estrogen levels, Jane began losing hair. She was treated with an IUD for her heavy periods, spironolactone to block her high free testosterone from her hair follicles, and metformin to treat her genetic insulin resistance. Thanks to her treatment, she lost weight, had healthy hair growth, and was even able to remove her IUD and get pregnant.
Unfortunately, Jane was diagnosed with diabetes during her pregnancy. She gained her weight back and had to relive her nightmare over again: scalp hair loss, chin hair growth, and the return of her severe acne. She then chose to restart her IUD, spironolactone, and metformin treatment. However, her loss of appetite led to protein and vitamin deficiency in addition to overall hair loss. Once she was able to correct her low levels of zinc, iron, and Vitamin B6 and increase her protein intake, her hair grew back again. It was a rollercoaster that she never asked for, but now Jane has a healthy baby, her periods are a distant memory, and she has even added years to her life.
If you’re experiencing hair loss, you’re not alone. Hair loss can be prevented by knowing the signs, advocating for yourself, and finding a qualified provider to treat you. No one wants to take medicine, but when these conditions are a part of your genetics, the right treatment can help you live an active life with the hair you have always dreamt of. Do not suffer in silence, seek help and be happy.
