What is Telogen Effluvium?
One of the most frequent reasons of transient hair loss is telogen effluvium. After a stressful incident, sickness, or hormonal changes, a significant percentage of hair follicles enter the resting phase (telogen) and fall out, resulting in this disorder. We’ll explore the causes, signs, and prevention of telogen effluvium in this blog.
What Causes Telogen Effluvium?
Several factors can trigger this, including:
1. Stress:
Stress, whether mental or physical, can interfere with the cycle of hair development.
2. Hormonal Imbalances:
Menopause, pregnancy, and childbirth are common causes of this syndrome.
3. Nutritional Deficiencies:
Low levels of vitamins and minerals, especially iron, can cause hair shedding.
4. Medications:
Certain drugs like antidepressants or blood thinners can contribute to hair loss.
5. Illnesses:
Fever, surgery, and significant weight loss are common culprits.
Signs and Symptoms of Telogen Effluvium
Instead of total baldness, telogen effluvium usually results in significant hair thinning. The following are the primary symptoms to be aware of:
1. Increased hair shedding:
There might be more hair on your hairbrush, pillow, or in the shower.
2. Thinner hair overall:
Hair may look less dense, particularly at the top of the scalp.
3. Sudden onset:
The shedding usually begins 2-3 months after the triggering event.
How to Treat Telogen Effluvium
While this is usually temporary and resolves on its own, these steps can help speed up recovery:
1. Improve Your Diet:
Hair health is supported by eating a well-balanced diet high in vitamins B, D, and E as well as minerals like iron and zinc.
2. Manage Stress:
Your body can heal if you incorporate stress-relieving exercises like yoga or meditation.
3. Use Gentle Hair Care Products:
Avoid harsh chemicals and heat styling tools that can further damage your hair.
4. Topical Treatments:
During the healing process, a topical medication called minoxidil can promote hair growth.
5. Consult a Doctor:
In extreme situations, your physician may suggest drugs or therapies like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy.
Can You Prevent Telogen Effluvium?
Although this cannot be totally avoided, you can reduce your risk by:
- Using mindfulness practices to manage stress.
- keeping up a nutritious diet full of vital elements.
- Avoid quick weight loss and crash diets.
- Speak with your physician prior to beginning a new pharmaceutical regimen.
Instead of bald patches, which are more typical in disorders like alopecia areata or male/female pattern baldness, telogen effluvium causes generalized hair thinning. The diagnosis can be confirmed by speaking with a trichologist or dermatologist.
Yes, significant physical or emotional stress is one of the leading causes of telogen effluvium. Stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, causing more hair to enter the resting phase and eventually fall out.
Yes, the hormonal changes that take place after giving birth cause telogen effluvium in many women. Usually, this condition is transient, and within a few months, hair growth returns to normal.
Final Thoughts:
Although telogen effluvium can be upsetting, keep in mind that it is a transient ailment. Most people regrow their hair in six to nine months with the right care and lifestyle changes. To rule out any underlying illnesses, it’s crucial to see a healthcare provider if you’re suffering significant or ongoing hair loss.
