Stress-related health conditions include headaches, chest pains, high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes. Hair loss is one of the effects of stress that is hardly given much attention. Yes, stress-related hair loss is a real issue and can be very frustrating and distressing. So, let’s see how stress relates to hair thinning and hair loss exactly.
How Stress Affects Your Hair Growth
Have you noticed an increased patch of hair at your shower drain? Or noticed increased hair loss when washing and combing your hair? If this is the case, maybe you need to take stock of what is happening in your life. Have you been going through a difficult time? As stress levels rise, the release of ‘cortisol’ a stress hormone increases. The triggered cortisol hormones suppress the hormones needed for hair growth interfering with the hair cycle, and you can then start to notice hair loss.
The name of the condition is ‘Telegon Effluvium’. But it doesn’t start immediately you get stressed. The hair loss effect starts from two to four months of being in a stressful environment. Normally, the hair follicle cycle has four phases which begin at the active growth (anagen) and end at the active shedding (exogen). The Telegon Effluvium locks the hair follicles at the resting phase hindering growth.
How to Deal with Stress-Related Hair Loss
Preventing stress-related hair loss starts by avoiding a stressful environment. Try to connect more with people close to you so that you can feel loved and not isolated. Also, you can start meditating, exercising, sleeping adequately and eating healthily. Several stress management techniques can be learnt to help you better manage whatever situation you find yourself experiencing.
Treatment options which restore your hair follicle cycle to normal and have your new hair strands healthy are also available. Using approved hair products such as shampoos and conditioners is one option. They will improve circulation at the base of the follicle and maintain a healthy scalp. Minoxidil is an example of a medication that has great reviews from dermatologists. Hair supplements can also stimulate hair growth, but it is important to get a dermatologists’ take first. Where a significant hair loss is experienced, then a hair transplant procedure may be a suggested treatment option.
When to Take Action on Stress-Related Hair Loss
Hair loss related to stress can be difficult to identify as it can be quite mild in the early stages. Once you do notice a significant hair loss, it is time to consult a specialist. A dermatology assessment will show how severe your hair loss is, and what options there are for treatment, which can include options for hair transplant. If this is the option you want to go with, contact us to help find the right surgeon for the right price.