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For Optimal Health
Hair loss due to telogen effluvium, or TE for short, can be a traumatic experience for both men and women. Unfortunately, despite advances in medical advances, it is still hard to determine what causes this form of hair loss. Knowing how to manage TE, and how to regrow lost hair, is essential for optimal health and well-being.
What is Telogen Effluvium?
Telogen effluvium is a hair condition characterized by chronic shedding of hair. TE usually impacts the scalp, though it can affect other areas of the body, such as the eyebrows and leg hair. TE is the result of a disturbance in the cycle of hair growth that usually follows three distinct phases: anagen (growth phase), catagen (transitional phase), and telogen (resting phase).
In people suffering from TE, more hairs than usual enter the telogen phase. This means that too many hair follicles enter the shedding phase, leading to significant hair loss. The typical symptoms of TE include diffuse thinning on the scalp, patchy hair loss, and itchy, greasy scalp.
Possible Causes of TE
The cause of telogen effluvium is often hard to pinpoint. However, it is thought that the primary causes of TE include:
- Physical or Emotional Stress – significant stress can cause a disruption in the hair cycle which may lead to TE.
- Hormonal Changes – often associated with pregnancy and childbirth. It can also be triggered by the use of certain medications, such as birth control pills and medications used to treat thyroid problems and other hormonal dysregulations.
- Malnutrition & Nutrient Deficiencies – dietary deficiencies in iron, zinc, and other essential nutrients can cause the hair follicles to enter the shedding phase.
- Medications & Chemicals – some medications, such as anticoagulants, chemotherapeutic drugs, and medical radiation can lead to TE.
- Illness – TE may be a result of an underlying medical condition, such as hypothyroidism, anemia, or lupus.
Treatment for Telogen Effluvium
Treating telogen effluvium often requires the individual to identify and manage the underlying cause of the condition. The goal is to reduce the stress on the hair follicles and help them return to the normal hair cycle.
Lifestyle changes may be necessary, such as reducing stress, getting adequate rest, and eating a balanced diet. Dietary supplements, such as minerals and vitamins, may be helpful. If medications are thought to be the cause, it may be necessary to change the dosage or switch to a different medication.
It is also important to avoid treatments, such as hair dyes and relaxers, as they can further damage the hair and make TE worse.
Regrowing Lost Hair
Once the underlying cause of telogen effluvium has been managed, the hair may start to recover and regrow. It may take several months before the shedding stops and the hair begins to regrow.
There are a number of treatments that may help speed up the regrowth process. These include topical medications (such as minoxidil and finasteride) as well as light therapy and other non-invasive procedures. If a nutritional deficiency is causing the condition, dietary supplements and vitamin injections may also help.
It is important to speak with a doctor or medical professional before taking any medication or trying any type of treatment.
Conclusion
Telogen effluvium is a common form of hair loss that is often difficult to diagnose and treat. It is important to find the underlying cause of the condition, as it can help reduce the chances of further hair loss and help regrow lost hair. However, it is important to speak to a doctor before embarking on any treatments or therapies for TE.
Optimal dermatology health is essential for healthy hair growth. Speak to your physician about telogen effluvium and how you can regain control of your hair cycle, reduce symptoms, and regrow lost hairs.
