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Hair Loss and Telogen Effluvium : What You Need to Know and Health
Hair loss is an embarrassment and a concern for many, but fortunately, Telogen Effluvium can be understood – and managed. Let’s take a closer look at the condition and how to live a healthy lifestyle to keep your hair healthy.
What Is Telogen Effluvium?
Telogen Effluvium or TE is a scalp disorder where the hair follicles stop producing healthy new hairs. In a normal hair growth cycle, new hair follicles push out existing hair follicles, but with TE, this process is disrupted. It’s also known as acute or short-term hair loss.
What Causes Telogen Effluvium?
TE can be caused by many different factors, including:
- Hormonal changes – Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid problems can trigger TE.
- Stress – Stress can put excess strain on hair follicles and reduce their production of new hair.
- Diet – Lack of essential vitamins and minerals can affect hair production.
- Medication – Certain drugs can interfere with the normal hair growth cycle.
- Heredity – A family history of TE
Signs and Symptoms of Telogen Effluvium
There are several signs and symptoms of TE that can help you diagnose the condition:
- Thinning Hair – Abnormal hair loss can occur in the entire scalp or a localized area.
- Receding Hairline – Gradual hair loss from the hairline may occur.
- Itchy Scalp – Inflammation of the hair follicles may cause an itchy sensation.
- Excessive Shedding – Increased amounts of shedding may occur over a period of several weeks.
- Bald Spot – Bald patches may appear within months of the onset of TE.
Treating Telogen Effluvium
Treatment for TE will depend on the underlying cause. Hair loss caused by stress, medications, and hormonal imbalance can be treated with lifestyle modifications and stress management techniques. If TE is caused by dietary deficiencies, supplementing with vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B12 and iron can help.
Additionally, getting regular scalp treatments can help stimulate hair growth, and over-the-counter topical treatments may help too. If TE does not improve with lifestyle changes and OTC treatments, a doctor may prescribe medications or a scalp procedure.
Living Healthily with Telogen Effluvium
Living a healthy lifestyle is key in preventing and managing TE. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and practicing stress management techniques can all help keep hair follicles healthy. It’s also important to avoid hairstyling products that may damage the scalp, and to wear protective styles such as hats or scarves when possible.
Living healthily with TE may be challenging, but the good news is that the condition is typically temporary. With timely diagnosis and treatment, hair loss due to TE can be reversed and prevent more serious hair loss from occurring in the future.
