Autoimmune Hair Loss: Understanding the Causes and Treatment Options
Hair loss is a common concern worldwide.
While it can have many reasons, autoimmune disorders can cause hair loss.
According to the National Stem Cell Foundation, 4% of the world population is affected by an autoimmune disorder.
In these conditions, one’s immune system mistakenly attacks the body.
The attack on the body can cause side effects resulting in hair loss.
Read along to learn all about autoimmune hair loss.
Does the immune system cause hair loss
Autoimmune disorders are conditions in which the immune system mistakenly attacks its body.
Under normal circumstances, the immune system fights foreign elements like bacteria or viruses.
But, in an autoimmune condition, it gets confused and attacks its cell.
These cells may also include the hair follicles leading to hair loss.
Which autoimmune disease causes hair loss
Autoimmune disorders that can lead to hair loss include
Alopecia Areata
Alopecia Areata is a disorder that causes small bald patches on the scalp.
This characterizes a hair loss condition that can lead to complete baldness or even Alopecia Universalis.
The body’s immune system attacks the hair follicles, causing hair to fall out in small, round patches.
It is not contagious and most commonly starts in childhood or young adulthood.
Treatments such as corticosteroids and topical Minoxidil can help to stimulate hair growth.
Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune disorder that affects multiple organs and tissues in the body.
The immune system’s attack on the body’s own tissues can lead to inflammation and damage.
Hair loss is a symptom of Lupus, affecting up to 50% of people.
Lupus can cause hair loss through inflammation in the hair follicles leading to hair loss.
Even medications used in the treatment can cause hair loss as a side effect.
In some cases, medications such as topical Minoxidil may also be used to stimulate hair regrowth.
Hashimoto’s disease
Hashimoto’s is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the thyroid gland.
In this condition, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland.
This can lead to an underactive thyroid gland condition called Hypothyroidism.
In Hypothyroidism, the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones.
This may affect metabolism and other bodily functions.
Hair loss is a common symptom caused by Hashimoto’s disease.
The disorder may disrupt the hair growth cycle and affect the hair follicles.
The reduced metabolic rate associated with Hypothyroidism can cause hair to become brittle and dry.
Grave’s disease
Graves’ disease also affects the thyroid gland.
In this condition, the immune system attacks the gland, causing it to produce excessive thyroid hormone.
This leads to Hyperthyroidism, which can cause various symptoms, including hair loss.
Hair loss is a common symptom of the disease and can occur for several reasons.
One of the primary mechanisms of the condition that causes hair loss is disrupting the hair growth cycle.
The thyroid hormones produced in excess in Graves’ disease can cause hair to enter the telogen (resting) phase prematurely.
It can result in hair shedding.
Grave’s disease can also lead to Alopecia Areata or Telogen Effluvium, resulting in excessive hair loss.
Crohn’s disease
Crohn’s affects the digestive tract causing inflammation in the body parts.
It can disrupt the absorption of nutrients, including vitamins and minerals essential for hair growth.
Malnutrition can cause hair loss or thinning.
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) primarily affects the joints, causing inflammation, pain, and stiffness.
RA can also affect other body parts, including the skin, lungs, heart, and blood vessels.
People with RA may take medications such as methotrexate to manage their symptoms.
Some of these medications can cause hair loss as a side effect.
People with RA may be at increased risk for nutrient deficiencies, including iron, zinc, and vitamin D.
These deficiencies can contribute to hair loss or thinning.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis affects the skin, causing it to become red, inflamed, and scaly.
It is most commonly found on the scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back.
Hair loss is a potential complication of scalp Psoriasis, which occurs when the condition affects the scalp.
Hair loss can occur due to inflammation caused by scalp Psoriasis.
It can damage hair follicles and disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss.
Conclusion
Hair loss in men and women can have several causes.
One of the major causes of autoimmune disorders.
Autoimmune hair loss is caused due to damage to hair follicles.
Nutritional deficiencies and medicinal side effects can also cause hair fall.
Doctors may prescribe treatments such as topical Minoxidil to manage excessive hair loss.
If you are experiencing autoimmune hair loss, consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis of the cause and early treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What autoimmune diseases can cause hair loss?
Autoimmune diseases that can cause hair loss include Alopecia Areata, Lupus, Hashimoto’s, and Grave’s disorder. These conditions can affect hair growth by damaging hair follicles, disrupting the hair growth cycle, or causing nutrient deficiencies.
How is autoimmune hair loss diagnosed?
Diagnosis of autoimmune hair loss involves a physical exam and medical history. Doctors may prescribe blood tests to check for autoimmune markers and nutrient deficiencies. Scalp biopsy is often performed to confirm the presence of autoimmune-related inflammation in hair follicles.
How do you stop autoimmune hair loss naturally?
Natural remedies such as a healthy diet, stress management, and scalp massage may help reduce inflammation and promote hair growth. However, consulting a healthcare provider before trying any natural remedies is essential.
What is the primary deficiency for hair loss?
Nutritional deficiency, mainly iron deficiency, can cause hair loss. Without adequate iron, hair follicles can become damaged, and hair growth can be affected.
What are autoimmune scalp conditions?
Autoimmune scalp conditions are disorders in which the immune system affects hair follicles, causing hair loss and scalp inflammation. These may include Alopecia Areata, Lupus, and scalp Psoriasis.
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