Thyroid and Hair: The Comprehensive Guide

Thyroid

May 31, 2024 , Last updated: July 18, 2024

The thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped organ located in the neck, plays a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions. It produces hormones that control metabolism, energy levels, and even hair growth.

Many people often ignore the connection between thyroid health and hair health. However, it is crucial and should be noticed.

Thyroid health can have a significant impact on the health and appearance of your hair. It is crucial to pay attention to both aspects of your health to maintain overall well-being.

Understanding Thyroid Function

The thyroid gland is responsible for producing two main hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones regulate various metabolic processes in the body, including hair growth and development.

When the thyroid gland is not working properly, it doesn't make enough hormones. This can lead to a slow metabolism and symptoms such as hair loss.

An overactive thyroid can cause hair loss by making too many hormones. This disrupts the hair growth cycle.

Thyroid and Hair Loss

Thyroid disorders can have a significant impact on hair health. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause hair thinning, excessive shedding, and even complete hair loss in some cases. The increased risk of hair loss for individuals with thyroid problems is due to the hormonal imbalance that affects the hair growth cycle.

Hair loss can indicate thyroid problems. It may not be easily noticeable or connected to the thyroid issue.

Many people may overlook this connection, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment, which can further exacerbate the hair loss problem.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Thyroid Problems

Doctors diagnose thyroid problems through blood tests that measure the levels of thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). These thyroid function tests help determine if the thyroid gland is functioning properly or if there is an imbalance.

Treatment for thyroid-related hair loss typically involves addressing the underlying thyroid condition. Doctors may prescribe medications such as synthetic thyroid hormones (levothyroxine) to restore normal hormone levels for hypothyroidism.

For hyperthyroidism, doctors may suggest antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine treatment, or surgery to remove part of the thyroid gland.

It's important to see a doctor for the right diagnosis and treatment. Ignoring thyroid problems or trying to treat them yourself can make hair loss worse and cause more health issues.

Conclusion

Thyroid problems can cause hair loss. It's important to know how thyroid disorders affect hair growth. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause significant hair thinning and loss, making it a hidden symptom of thyroid issues.

Regular thyroid function tests and prompt treatment can help manage thyroid-related hair loss effectively. By addressing the underlying thyroid condition, individuals can regain control over their hair health and overall well-being.

Why Dr Batra's^®?

Dr Batra's^® is a renowned holistic healthcare provider specialising in homeopathic and holistic treatments for various conditions, including thyroid disorders and hair loss. With their expertise in thyroid disease and thyroid symptoms, they offer comprehensive diagnosis and effective thyroid function test procedures.

They treat hair loss from thyroid disorder by finding the root cause. This approach is natural and safe. It offers an alternative to traditional treatments.

Dr Batra's^® uses their expertise in thyroid disorders and hair loss to develop customised treatment plans for individuals. This approach results in improved outcomes and overall well-being for each person.

Authored By

Dr. Akshay Batra

Vice Chairman & Managing Director

FAQs

I'm treating my thyroid condition but still losing hair. Is that normal?

Yes, it's normal to experience some hair shedding even after starting treatment for thyroid conditions. Hair growth is a slow process, and it may take several months for the hair to recover and regrow after your thyroid levels stabilise.

Can hair regrow after treating thyroid issues?

Yes, hair can regrow after treating thyroid issues. Once your thyroid hormone levels return to normal and remain stable, the excessive shedding of hair will cease. As a result, your hair will gradually begin to grow back.

How do you know if hair loss is from thyroid?

Thyroid-related hair loss usually causes overall hair thinning or shedding across the entire scalp, instead of just in specific areas. Other symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or sensitivity to cold or heat often accompany it.

How can I control my hair fall due to thyroid?

To control hair fall due to thyroid issues, the most important step is to follow your treatment plan diligently and ensure your thyroid levels are well-managed. You can try being gentle with your hair.
Avoid using too much heat. Use a soft brush. Massage your scalp to increase blood flow.

Is thyroid hair loss temporary?

In most cases, thyroid-related hair loss is temporary.
If the thyroid condition is treated properly, the hair should grow back to normal within a few months to a year.