How Can Thyroid Problems Affect Hair Loss?

By Author: Steven Johnson
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Condition of your hearth is a good indicator of your health in general. And if you start losing hair it's a clear sign that there are some health problems that you don't know about yet. There are many health conditions that can trigger hair thinning and hair loss, such as nutritional problems, hormonal imbalance, surgery side-effects, medication and substance abuse, and thyroid problems.

The problem of hair loss has become quite common in the US. The American Academy of Dermatology's Data indicates that by the age of 40 nearly a half of all Americans will experience hair loss problems to a different degree. But if you have thyroid problems, hair loss might take place even earlier.

There are three major kinds of thyroid issues:

1. Hyperthyroidism - Over-activity of the thyroid gland
2. Hypothyroidism - Under-activity of the gland
3. Benign thyroid disease and thyroid cancer

When speaking about hair loss issues, they are usually connected with over and under activity of the thyroid gland and respective hormone production.

Where is the thyroid gland exactly?

The thyroid gland ...
... is located at the base of the neck, surrounding the voice box (larynx) from both sides.

What should you do if thyroid problems cause hair loss?

Get a medical evaluation

If you have hair loss problems and suspect them being caused by thyroid functions, you should get an evaluation from a dermatologist and endocrinologist. Dermatologists usually take a set of tests in order to find any signs of infections and health problems other then the thyroid gland functions. Endocrinologists will evaluate the condition of your thyroid and tell you what the problem is exactly if that's the case.

Can it be the drug you're taking?

In many cases hair loss can be caused by the use of particular medications. If you are currently taking Synthroid, Unithroid, Levoxyl, Levothroid or any other similar medications there's a risk of experiencing hair loss problems. If that's the case, consult with your doctor in how to minimize the effects of these drugs.

Avoid being undertreated

Not taking the right medications for the right medical condition can also cause serious side effects including hair loss. Make sure that your doctor has issues the right treatment course by consulting with another specialist.

Be patient

When the cause for hair loss is identified and it's clear that the thyroid is responsible for it, it's time to get a bit patient. You will definitely be prescribed with hormonal treatment, and it's a slow process that may take a couple of months. Don't expect hair loss to stop altogether after the first week of the treatment course.

Are there any other solutions available?

Of course, you may take a chance and try Propecia, which is by far the most effective hair loss drug for men. However, it should only be used by men, while women cannot take the drug due to the hormonal effects the drug delivers. And it also requires you to find out the exact problem of your hair loss. If hair thinning and balding is caused by thyroid gland issues it's quite likely that you won't need Propecia.