The most common thyroid-related problems result from an abnormal production of thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, involves insufficient amounts of thyroid hormone. Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much hormone. The thyroid gland makes thyroid hormones, which the body uses for energy, to stay warm, and to keep the organs and muscles working properly. Having an overactive or underactive thyroid gland may cause hair loss in some people.
The relationship between the thyroid gland and hair loss
Hair loss is a possible symptom of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.The thyroid hormone plays an essential role in the development and maintenance of the hair follicles. Follicles are the small pockets under the skin from which hairs grow. Severe or prolonged hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism may result in hair loss. Hair roots usually rotate the work of making hair. For example, hair roots on the head typically grow hair for a few years and then take a break. When the body has too much or not enough thyroid hormone, it can “shock the system” into a state of telogen effluvium. Telogen effluvium is a scalp disorder where the hair roots enter the resting stage of the hair cycle too early. As many as 70% of scalp hairs can fall out within about 2 months during a state of telogen effluvium. When someone has one type of autoimmune condition, they are more likely than other people to develop another. Hair loss is also a possible side effect of some antithyroid drugs, including methimazole and propylthiouracil (PTU).
Symptoms of thyroid-related hair loss
Hair loss may develop slowly with hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. You won’t necessarily notice patches missing or bald spots. Instead, your hair may seem thinner all over. You lose between 50 and 100 hairs from your head each day. If normal hair growth is interrupted, hairs aren’t being replenished, and a uniform hair loss may occur. The good news is that hair loss caused by thyroid conditions is typically temporary. You may experience hair loss even after starting drugs to help with your condition.
Hair loss treatment
Treating thyroid-related hair loss requires treating the thyroid problem.
Treatment of hypothyroidism: A doctor will usually prescribe a synthetic hormone called levothyroxine sodium (Levothroid, Levoxyl, Synthroid, or Unithroid) to treat an underactive thyroid
Treatment of hyperthyroidism: Treatment for an overactive thyroid varies from person to person. Some of the most common methods include:
- Antithyroid drugs , such as methimazole (Tapazole) and PTU
- Radioactive iodine
- Surgery
Home remedies and lifestyle changes: People living with thyroid disorders that can lead to hair loss often require medication to manage their condition. In general, eating a balanced diet can help to promote growth and improve the condition of hair. A healthful and balanced diet is one that contains protein, fruits, vegetables, grains, and a moderate amount of fat. Foods that can increase the chances of having healthy hair include:
- Fish، Oily fish contains omega-3 fatty acids that can help prevent a dry scalp.
- Dark green vegetables، Vegetables such as spinach have high levels of vitamins A and C.
- Protein-rich foods،Dairy foods, legumes, nuts, and lean meats all contain high levels of protein.
- Biotin-rich foods، Biotin is a vitamin that is important for hair growth. Sources of biotin include whole grains, liver, egg yolk, soy flour, and yeast.
Biotin is also available in many over-the-counter (OTC) hair vitamins. However, biotin can affect the results of thyroid blood tests, so anyone having a blood test should stop using or consuming products containing biotin for a few days beforehand.
Other possible reasons for hair loss
- pregnancy or childbirth
- getting older
- stress
- surgery
- nutritional problems
- iron deficiency
- anemia
- an excessive amount of male hormones
- genetic predisposition
- dermatologic scalp problems
Reference
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/326902#summary
https://www.btf-thyroid.org/hair-loss-and-thyroid-disorders
https://www.healthline.com/health/thyroid-and-hair-loss#takeaway
