Telogen effluvium
Definition: Telogen effluvium is a temporary hair loss condition that disrupts the natural hair growth cycle. Normally, around 85-90% of your hair follicles are in the anagen (growth) phase, which lasts for years. The remaining 10-15% are in the telogen (resting) phase, which lasts for a few months before the hair naturally falls out and a new one begins to grow (anagen phase). In telogen effluvium, a stressful event pushes a larger percentage of hair follicles (sometimes over 50%) prematurely into the telogen phase, resulting in noticeable shedding 2-4 months later.
Causes: Various factors can trigger telogen effluvium, including:
Physical or emotional stress: Significant events like surgery, illness, childbirth, emotional distress, or rapid weight loss can disrupt the hair growth cycle.
Nutritional deficiencies: Deficiencies in iron, protein, or other vital nutrients can contribute to hair loss.
Certain medications: Medications like chemotherapy drugs, blood thinners, or some antidepressants can cause temporary hair shedding as a side effect.
Medical conditions: Thyroid disorders, hormonal imbalances, or autoimmune diseases can also lead to telogen effluvium.
Signs and Symptoms:
Increased hair shedding, often noticed during brushing or styling.
Thinning of hair overall, especially noticeable on the scalp or temples.
The hair loss pattern is typically diffuse, affecting the entire scalp rather than localized patches.
Treatment: Telogen effluvium is usually temporary, and hair growth typically resumes on its own once the underlying trigger is addressed. Here are some possibilities:
Identifying and addressing the cause: Addressing nutritional deficiencies, managing stress, or changing medications might help.
Dietary changes: Ensuring a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients for healthy hair growth.
Minoxidil (Rogaine): While not always effective for telogen effluvium, topical minoxidil may be used in some cases to promote hair growth.
Disclaimer: Please consult a dermatologist for diagnosis and treatment options for telogen effluvium.