There are several medical conditions that have been linked to the onset of hair loss or thinning, with everything from high cholesterol to fungal infection attributed as the leading causes of hair loss. There is one medical issue that isn’t so well known for its connection to hair loss however.
Thyroid problems can and do cause hair loss and thinning in men and women. So, what should you know about thyroid-related hair loss and could hair thinning symptoms be reversed?
What exactly is the thyroid?
What the thyroid is and where it is located are mysteries to many. At just two inches long, this small and seemingly insignificant, butterfly-shaped gland is situated at the front of the neck, and plays a vital role in the production of the hormones that keep some of the human body’s main systems and processes in check.
The hormones produced by the thyroid gland are charged with regulating your metabolism, ensuring good brain development, maintaining your bones, controlling how fast your heart beats, and preserving a suitable body temperature to name but a few functions.
The thyroid also works in harmony with the pituitary gland to emit essential hormones into your bloodstream, transport them throughout the body, and use them in exactly the right way in exactly the right quantities.
Just how common are thyroid issues?
Now we know how the thyroid gland should work, it is important to acknowledge that when it doesn’t work as it should, several medical issues can become apparent. The thyroid gland for instance may become enlarged, produce too little or too much of a certain hormone, or develop growths.
As the University of Aberdeen explains, thyroid problems come in all shapes and sizes to cause several consequences; they are also particularly widespread within the UK:
“One in 20 people in the UK have a thyroid problem, with women six times more likely to suffer from the condition than men. Posing serious implications for the physical, mental and emotional life of those affected, thyroid patients are at greater risk of experiencing long-term sick leave and impairment of working ability.”
How do thyroid problems cause hair loss?
Hormonal imbalances are common causes of hair loss, so considering the role of the thyroid gland, it should come as no surprise that thyroid issues can have a negative impact on the health and condition of the hair.
Hypothyroidism (also known as an underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (a.k.a. an overactive thyroid) are just two thyroid issues that have an adverse effect on hair and scalp health. Many sufferers report dry, brittle and thinning hair, which, if left untreated, can go onto prevent new hair growth altogether.
Autoimmune diseases, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and lupus, have also been linked to hair loss and thinning on the scalp and wider body.
Is thyroid related hair loss permanent?
Thyroid related hair loss is gradual. This means you may not initially notice obvious patches of thinning or baldness. Instead, the hair may become generally thinner all over. Thyroid related hair loss also tends to be a symptom of more severe thyroid conditions, rather than milder forms.
While recovery from thyroid related hair loss is possible, it is an equally gradual process. Most cases will require investigation from a medical professional to establish if thyroid levels are the cause of hair loss. Your thyroid medication may also need to be changed over the course of several months to remedy hair thinning and encourage new growth.
It is recommended that any nutritional deficiencies are treated at home too. A healthy, balanced diet full of anti-inflammatory foods has the potential to improve thyroid function and ease symptoms such as hair loss.
Are you currently recovering from thyroid related hair loss? Find the wig you need to recover with confidence by shopping with us today.
