Tuesday, April 30, 2024

What causes baldness? Understand why people lose their hair

can low iron cause hair loss

Thirty-six of 928 identified studies entered the systematic meta-analysis. Two of the most common non-hereditary causes of hair loss are low thyroid function and iron deficiency. And although they are two completely different conditions, they share some of the same symptoms.

can low iron cause hair loss

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Doctors believe the platelets contain a significant amount of growth factors, which can help stimulate hair growth. Research in one study found that women who received PRP injections saw increases in the density and thickness of their hair after 6 months. People experiencing both hair loss and an iron deficiency might need to treat both separately. Female pattern hair loss usually refers to thinning hair in the middle portion of the scalp. People with this hair loss pattern may also have thinning or receding hair on the hairline along their forehead.

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There are lots of potential causes of hair loss in women, which is why it’s so important to get a professional diagnosis. Our specialists in women’s hair loss can diagnose the underlying causes and create a female hair loss treatment plan that works for you. Oxygen is used to grow and repair many cells, including around your scalp, which can stimulate hair growth. Without this haemoglobin, your hair won’t grow or repair itself at the same rate.

Will hair loss from iron deficiency grow back?

If you are concerned that your iron levels may not be adequate, it is important to ask your doctor to measure your levels. One of the most common causes of iron deficiency can occur in women of menstruating age, due to the monthly losses of blood during their menstrual cycle. Doctors may use a ferritin test to check for the levels of iron in the body. The characteristics of the studies that were included in the meta-analysis are described in Table ​Table1.1. Twenty-one were case-control studies, and 15 were cohort studies. One study was published in German [14], 2 in Turkish [15, 16], and the rest in English.

can low iron cause hair loss

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If increasing iron intake does not resolve symptoms, doctors will consider other options, such as medical treatments for hair loss or other possible underlying conditions. Usually, the only way to prevent hair loss is to treat the underlying condition. Potentially excess iron can trigger hair loss, whether it’s due to a genetic condition such as haemochromatosis (where the body stores too much iron) or taking too many iron supplements.

Is There a Link Between Hair Loss and Iron Deficiency?

The authors of a few studies suggest that the levels of folate or vitamin B12 might modify the progression of AA, but data are still too limited to recommend screening or supplementation of B vitamins. Biotin supplementation has been successful in the treatment of brittle nails [137]. In one study with the aim to determine the effects of isotretinoin on acne vulgaris in the skin, special care was taken to evaluate changes in the hair and hair growth. Consistent with other findings, the authors reported a decrease in hair count, density, and percentage of anagen hairs [19]. The role of nutrition and diet in treating hair loss represents a dynamic and growing area of inquiry.

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Doktor says this type of hair loss "affects ~70 percent of men and a large population of women." Certain groups of people are more likely to experience iron-deficiency anemia, like women of childbearing age who are experiencing heavy periods and loss of blood during pregnancy [3]. It can also affect people who have disorders that make them unable to absorb iron, but it can also just come down to genetics. If a person suspects their iron levels may be low, they should visit a doctor who can perform blood tests to determine if they are anemic. It’s always a good idea to visit your doctor to discuss treatment options and get you on the path to optimal health quickly.

Symptoms include tiredness, weakness, poor concentration, and dry skin and nails. In some cases, iron deficiency anemia can develop and result in low blood pressure, heart palpitations, shortness of breath, and an increased risk for infections. If a doctor encounters a person experiencing hair loss who has low iron and ferritin levels, they will suggest dietary changes that include increased iron levels. There is a significant difference in ferritin levels between women with nonscarring alopecia and healthy women. Iron-deficiency anemia is not more common among women with nonscarring alopecia.

There is no established upper limit for vitamin B12 intake, as it has a low potential for toxicity [22]. Acquired biotin deficiency can be due to increased raw egg consumption, where avidin particles attach to biotin and inhibit its absorption into the intestinal gut. The aforementioned medications interfere with biotinidase activity [34].

Common symptoms include fatigue, paleness, shortness of breath, and dry or damaged hair and skin. Other signs of iron deficiency include strange cravings, depression, frequent infections, and cold hands and feet. Children and older adults share symptoms, but neurological symptoms, like ADHD, are more common in children. People with iron deficiency anemia may have restless legs syndrome, which is a strong urge to move your legs while at rest.

If you believe your hair loss is related to an iron deficiency, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before taking matters into your own hands. It may seem tempting to self-diagnose and take an iron supplement, but they do have side effects, and your good health intentions may end up leading to more severe health problems. One study of nonmenopausal women found that 59 percent of those experiencing excessive hair loss also had iron deficiency.

If you’re dealing with hair loss for any reason, it’s important to be aware of the sensitivity of your hair follicles. Depending on your symptoms and the exact thyroid condition you’re experiencing, your treatment options may vary. It’s important to see a healthcare provider to discuss in detail your symptoms so they can develop the best treatment plan. In some cases, you may also be more likely to develop alopecia areata due to a thyroid autoimmune condition. This condition can cause patchy hair loss on the scalp or other areas of your body. Once the reason you have iron deficiency anaemia has been found (for example, an ulcer or heavy periods) the GP will recommend treatment.

Thus, it would appear that women who complain of hair loss can benefit from higher ferritin levels. The best way to treat hair loss is to address the underlying cause of the problem. If you think your hair loss is related to an iron deficiency, consult a doctor to measure your iron levels.

But the process of ferritin loss can occur before a person experiences hair loss problems. If your doctor confirms that you have iron deficiency — typically via a blood test — they will develop a treatment plan that best meets your healthcare needs. Shortness of breath is a symptom of iron deficiency, since low hemoglobin levels stop your body from effectively transporting oxygen to your muscles and tissues.

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