What is Telogen Effluvium?
Do you think you have Telogen Effuvium?
Imagine your hair growing in stages: an active growth period, a transition, and a resting period. Telogen effluvium occurs when an unusually high number of hair follicles enter that resting phase (telogen) earlier than they should. Subsequently, these hairs tend to shed a few months later. Simply put, it’s a temporary increase in hair loss.
Some symptoms to look out for:
Increased Hair shedding: The primary sign is increased hair shedding. You might observe more hair than usual falling out when you brush it, wash it, or even gently tug on it. This can be quite concerning.
Diffuse thinning: Instead of obvious bald spots, you might observe a general thinning of your hair all over, especially on the top of your head. Your hair might also feel less thick.
Finding more hair than usual in your brush, on your pillow, or in the shower drain are often the first things people notice. Occasionally, some individuals might experience mild tenderness or itching of the scalp, but this isn’t a main symptom.
It’s important to keep in mind that telogen effluvium is typically temporary, and your hair will likely regrow over time. However, if you’re worried about hair loss, consulting a doctor to determine the specific cause is always recommended.
The Culprits Behind Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium can be brought on by various factors that cause a shock to the body, leading an unusually large number of hair follicles to enter the resting (telogen) phase earlier than normal. Some frequent causes include:
- Significant Stress: Both physical and emotional stress can be a major contributing factor. This can involve events like major surgery, serious illness, trauma, the loss of a loved one, or significant life changes.
- Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in hormone levels, especially in women, are a well-recognized cause. This includes the period after giving birth (due to a decrease in estrogen), starting or stopping oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy, and menopause. Issues with the thyroid gland (both underactive and overactive) can also be involved.
- Illness and Fever: High temperatures, severe infections, and even illnesses like COVID-19 can disrupt the hair growth cycle and result in telogen effluvium a few months later.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lacking certain nutrients, such as iron, zinc, vitamin D, and protein, can affect hair growth and contribute to shedding. Rapid weight loss and severely restrictive diets can also disrupt the hair cycle.
- Medications: Certain drugs are known to cause telogen effluvium as a side effect. These can include beta-blockers, retinoids (like high doses of Vitamin A), blood thinners, antidepressants, and some nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
- Major Surgery and Anesthesia: The physical strain of a significant surgical procedure and the effects of anesthesia can sometimes trigger telogen effluvium.
- Other Factors: Less common triggers can include exposure to heavy metals and sudden dietary changes. It’s worth noting that in some instances, no specific cause for telogen effluvium can be found.
Treatments for Telogen Effuvium
Proper Diagnosis
The crucial first step in effectively managing telogen effluvium and determining the appropriate course of action is to obtain an accurate diagnosis to identify the underlying cause.
Minoxodil
Minoxidil is a topical solution that stimulates hair growth on the scalp.
Prescribed Supplements
While a balanced diet is usually sufficient, in cases of confirmed nutritional deficiencies (like iron or zinc), your doctor might recommend supplements. However, it’s important not to self-medicate with high doses of vitamins and minerals.
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