The Thyroid And Its Role In Hair Loss

There are many causes of hair loss. A large majority of hair loss suffers are men who are suffering from male pattern baldness. This is a genetic condition and is completely out of the person's control. Either you will suffer from it or you won't. There are also a variety of medical conditions that can lead to hair loss. Kidney and liver disease, dietary deficiencies, and hormonal imbalances can all result in hair loss. Hair loss can be a side effect of certain medications and treatments, such as chemotherapy. Thyroid disease is also a contributing factor in hair loss. The thyroid and its role in hair loss is a fact based on extensive scientific research. The thyroid gland has a specific job to do. It is there to produce hormones that control our metabolism and body temperature. The thyroid and its role in hair loss is a result of a malfunction of the thyroid gland leading to changes in both our metabolism and body temperature.

If our body temperature decreases for a period of time, many chemical reactions in our bodies either slow down or stop completely. One of these reactions that are affected by the decreased body temperature is the chemical reaction that promotes hair growth. This is where the thyroid and its role in hair loss come into play. Once the chemical reactions are slowed down or stopped altogether, the follicles in the scalp prematurely release the shaft. Normally, the follicle would rest and then continue on in its production of new hair. In cases where there are thyroid issues, the follicle lays dormant indefinitely. Over time, hair loss will become noticeable.

Since thyroid symptoms can vary and are often chalked up to depression or some other medical condition, I thought it might help to go over some of the more common signs of thyroid disease. The thyroid and its role in hair loss is just one of many problems that having a malfunctioning thyroid can cause. The most common symptoms of a thyroid that is under producing needed hormones are as follows: chronic fatigue, unexplained weight gain, forgetfulness, loss of concentration, brittle nails, constipation, a change in hair texture, and hair loss. In an overactive thyroid the symptoms include rapid heartbeat, weight loss, insomnia, bulging eyes, nervousness and irritability, hot flashes, and an unblinking stare. Diagnosing both cases is easy. It only requires a simple blood test and medication can be used to restore the thyroid to its full function.

As you can see, the thyroid and its role in hair loss is a small part of having a thyroid condition. If you have any of the above-mentioned symptoms, consult a doctor. Only a doctor can determine if your symptoms are caused by a malfunctioning thyroid and, if so, just what should be done about it. The good news is that once the thyroid has returned to normal, all your symptoms should resolve themselves, including your hair loss.