Does Radiation Cause Hair Loss: Understanding the Connection
Radiation does cause hair loss in some people after radiation therapy.
The extent of hair loss from radiation therapy can range from mild thinning to complete baldness.
Hair loss from this cancer treatment is quite common, affecting around 75% to 90% of patients.
It can be a difficult situation for people suffering from sudden hair loss. But fortunately, hair loss from radiation is temporary, and you can get your hair back in a few months.
Keep reading to learn how does radiation cause hair loss and what you can do to manage hair after radiation therapy.
Radiation and hair loss
Radiation therapy destroys cancer cells but sometimes affects healthy cells, too, including cells that make hair grow.
It causes hair loss in the area that is being treated.
In some cases, hair loss can also occur in the area where the radiation beam exits the body.
If your scalp is being treated with radiation therapy, you may or may not lose your hair.
You may also lose eyebrows and lashes as a result of the treatment.
The amount of hair loss depends on a few factors, including:
- Size of the area that is being treated
- Amount of radiation dose given
- Type of radiation
Is hair loss from radiation therapy permanent
In most cases, hair loss caused by radiation therapy is not permanent.
Once the treatment is over, your hair will start to grow back.
However, newly grown hair may have some changes in texture and color.
Speak with your doctor if you have any concerns about your hair and its growth.
How to manage your hair post-radiation therapy
If you have been through radiation therapy near the scalp area, you may lose some hair around the scalp.
However, hair often grows back three to six months after your treatment.
Meanwhile, you can take care of your hair by following some things and making some changes in your lifestyle habits.
Treat your hair gently
Be gentle while handling your hair. Use soft bristle brushes and gentle hair care products.
Try using shampoo and conditioner free of sulfate, as it is a harsh substance and can further damage your hair.
Try to avoid heating styles as much as possible. In case you need to use heating tools, keep the heat at a minimum level.
Also, avoid any chemicals used to style your hair for bleach or color.
Protect your scalp
If you lose your hair after radiation treatment on the scalp, your scalp may feel tender.
Protect your scalp with a hat, scarf, or beanie from UV rays while going out and use sunscreen to avoid sunburns.
Choose a comfortable scarf or hat to avoid any irritation.
Conditioners and lotions can help you feel better if your scalp itches or feels tender.
Coping with hair loss
Hair loss can be challenging to deal with.
It is important that you talk with someone. You can talk with others who have lost their hair during treatment.
Many people cut their hair short, making it easier to deal with hair fall.
You can also join an online or in-person support group to get suggestions.
Takeaway
In conclusion, radiation therapy can cause hair loss, but the extent of the hair loss depends on the location of the radiation and the dose of radiation used.
Hair loss may be temporary or permanent, and there are no guaranteed treatments for radiation-induced hair loss.
However, there are strategies like protecting your scalp from cold and heat and using gentle hair products.
It can help reduce the severity of hair loss, and there are options available to help manage the hair loss that does occur.
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