Hair loss can be a distressing experience for individuals, affecting their self-esteem and overall well-being. Telogen Effluvium is a type of hair loss that occurs due to various factors.
What is Telogen Effluvium?
Telogen Effluvium is a form of hair loss characterized by excessive hair shedding from the scalp. It occurs when there is a disruption in the hair growth cycle, leading to an increased number of hairs entering the resting phase (telogen) and falling out. This condition can result in noticeable thinning of the hair.
Telogen Effluvium differs from other types of hair loss, such as male or female pattern baldness, as it is temporary and reversible. The hair follicles remain intact, and with proper care, the hair can regrow.
Causes of Telogen Effluvium
Telogen Effluvium can be caused by various factors, including:
Stress
Physical or emotional stress is a common cause of Telogen Effluvium. Stressful events, such as major surgery, illness, childbirth, or emotional trauma, can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, pushing more hair follicles into the resting phase.
Hormonal Changes
Hormonal changes can also contribute to Telogen Effluvium. Pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid disorders can disrupt the delicate balance of hormones in the body, leading to excessive hair shedding.
Nutritional Deficiencies
A lack of essential nutrients, such as iron, zinc, vitamins, and proteins, can affect hair growth and contribute to Telogen Effluvium. Poor diet, eating disorders, and certain medical conditions can cause nutritional deficiencies that impact the hair’s health.
Medications and Medical Treatments
Certain medications and medical treatments can trigger Telogen Effluvium as a side effect. Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and drugs used for acne, depression, high blood pressure, and autoimmune diseases may lead to temporary hair loss.
Rapid Weight Loss or Extreme Dieting
Losing significant weight rapidly or following extreme dieting practices can shock the body and disrupt the hair growth cycle. This can result in Telogen Effluvium, with hair shedding becoming noticeable a few months after the weight loss or dieting.
Which are the signs of Telogen effluvium?
The signs of telogen effluvium can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, some common symptoms include:
- Increased hair shedding: This is the most common sign of telogen effluvium. You may notice that you are losing more hair than usual when you brush, wash, or run your fingers through your hair.
- Thinning hair: As more hairs enter the telogen phase, your hair may start to thin. This may be noticeable on the scalp, but it can also be seen in other areas of the body, such as the eyebrows and eyelashes.
- Patchy hair loss: Telogen effluvium can sometimes cause patchy hair loss. This is more common in people with a receding hairline or thinning hair on the top of the scalp.
If you are experiencing any of these signs, seeing a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions is essential. However, if your doctor determines that you have telogen odor, you can be reassured that it is usually temporary and that your hair will likely grow back.
The signs of a condition that could be a sign of something else
The loss of hair could be a sign of another disorder. For instance, alopecia areata is an autoimmune disorder that causes complete hair loss. The thyroid condition and the fluctuation of thyroid hormones can cause hair loss. Allergy to contact dermatitis triggered by hair dyes may cause hair loss.
Telogen Treatment of effluvium What is the best way to use it?
Treatments for TE be as simple as lifestyle changes or testing out products that are available over-the-counter (OTC) items.
The most effective method of treating the issue is to identify what’s causing it, whether it’s your environment, hormones or lifestyle.
Concentrate on nutrition and diet
You may lack some of the essential vitamins and nutrients for your hair’s health. Consult your physician to assess your levels to determine whether you’re receiving sufficient vitamin D, zinc and iron. A balanced diet is essential to ensure you get all the necessary nutrients.
Care for your hair with care
If you suffer from TE, it is essential to be delicate when you style your hair. Avoid blow drying, straightening, curling, or straightening your hair until the condition improves. The frequent colouring or highlighting you do during this time may also cause damage and slow hair growth.
Seek help from the pharmacy
OTC products may also assist with the regrowth process. It is essential to choose one that has five per cent minoxidil. It’s a daily application of topical cream on the scalp. It does this by extending the anagen phase, also known as the growing phase, that is active in the hair follicle.
Relax
If your hair loss is due to tension, reducing your stress levels could also be beneficial. It is possible to begin meditation or journaling to manage stress. Yoga and other types of exercise could help relax your mind and offer an effective way to deal with anxiety.
Does there exist a distinction between anagen and telogen effluvium?
Anagen effluvium (AE) is a different type of hair loss. It can develop quickly and lead to more significant hair loss. Hair clumps can fall out.
Patients undergoing chemotherapy for cancer or taking chemotherapy drugs, such as antimetabolites or alkylating agents, can suffer from AE.
Like TE, AE is irreversible. Stopping chemotherapy could take as long as six months before hair regains its average growth rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can stress cause Telogen Effluvium?
Yes, stress is a common trigger for Telogen Effluvium. Intense or prolonged physical or emotional stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle, leading to excessive shedding.
Is Telogen Effluvium reversible?
In most cases, Telogen Effluvium is reversible. Once the underlying cause is addressed and the hair growth cycle normalizes, hair shedding reduces, and new hair starts to grow.
How long does Telogen Effluvium last?
The duration of Telogen Effluvium varies from person to person. It can sometimes last for several months, while others may experience it for a year or more. Timely management of the underlying cause expedites the recovery process.
Can diet affect Telogen Effluvium?
Yes, an imbalanced or nutrient-deficient diet can contribute to Telogen Effluvium. Ensuring a healthy and varied diet with adequate protein, vitamins, and minerals is essential for hair health.
