Several adult diseases can contribute to hair loss by affecting the body's ability to maintain healthy hair growth. Here are some common conditions
1. Thyroid Disorders
Hypothyroidism
An underactive thyroid can slow down metabolic processes, including hair growth, leading to thinning hair.
Hyperthyroidism
An overactive thyroid can cause hair to become fine and brittle, resulting in hair loss.
2. Diabetes
Impact
Poor blood circulation associated with diabetes can affect the hair follicles, leading to hair thinning or loss. High blood sugar levels can also disrupt the hair growth cycle.
3. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Impact
This hormonal disorder can cause elevated levels of androgens (male hormones), leading to hair thinning or loss on the scalp (androgenetic alopecia).
4. Autoimmune Diseases
Alopecia Areata
The immune system attacks hair follicles, causing patchy hair loss.
Lupus
This systemic autoimmune disease can lead to hair thinning or bald patches, particularly where the scalp is affected by the disease.
Rheumatoid Arthritis
Autoimmune inflammation and the medications used to treat it can contribute to hair loss.
5. Anemia
Iron-Deficiency Anemia
A lack of iron can reduce oxygen supply to hair follicles, weakening hair and causing it to fall out.
Vitamin B12 Deficiency Anemia
Insufficient vitamin B12 can also lead to hair loss.
6. Scalp Infections
Fungal Infections (e.g., Ringworm)
These can damage the hair follicles, leading to temporary hair loss.
Seborrheic Dermatitis
Inflammatory conditions that cause scaly patches on the scalp can interfere with hair growth.
7. Skin Conditions
Psoriasis
This autoimmune condition causes red, scaly patches on the scalp, which can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss.
Eczema
Severe cases can cause inflammation and hair loss.
8. Hormonal Imbalances
Menopause
Decreased estrogen levels during menopause can lead to hair thinning.
Androgen Imbalances
Conditions that increase androgen levels can lead to androgenetic alopecia.
9. Chronic Illnesses
Chronic Kidney Disease
This condition can lead to hair thinning due to the body's reduced ability to process nutrients and maintain overall health.
Chronic Liver Disease
Liver dysfunction can impact nutrient absorption and hormone regulation, affecting hair growth.
10. Cancer and Cancer Treatments
Impact
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can target rapidly dividing cells, including hair follicles, leading to significant hair loss.
Medications
Some medications used to treat cancer can also cause hair thinning or loss as a side effect.
11. Stress and Mental Health Conditions
Chronic Stress
Prolonged stress can push hair follicles into the resting phase, leading to telogen effluvium, a type of temporary hair loss.
Depression and Anxiety
These conditions, along with their treatments, can contribute to hair loss.
12. Nutritional Deficiencies
Poor Diet
Conditions that lead to poor absorption of nutrients, such as celiac disease or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), can result in hair loss due to deficiencies in vital nutrients like iron, zinc, and vitamins.
Conclusion
Hair loss can be a symptom of various underlying health conditions. If you are experiencing significant hair loss, it's important to consult a healthcare provider to determine the root cause and appropriate treatment. Addressing the underlying condition often helps in managing and potentially reversing hair loss.