How Does Stress Affect Hair Loss?

Research suggests that stress is a common factor in hair loss cases. There are a lot of hair loss conditions that have been linked to stress. But, not all types of stressful activities will lead to hair loss.

In this article, you will learn about everything you need to know about hair loss from stress. We also provide you with some pointers on how to cope with stress and hair loss situations.

How does stress cause hair loss?

Suppose you begin to notice that your hairline is receding, or that there are more hair strands on your pillow or comb; these are early indications that you might have a condition that causes hair loss.

Stress is one of the risk factors for hair loss. Chronic stress, whether physical or emotional, can cause your immune system to attack your hair follicles, causing your hair to fall out. In fact, when it is not treated early enough, it may create other dangers for your hair.

In another case, stress can cause hair loss by disrupting the growth cycle. When you are stressed, your body produces higher levels of the hormone cortisol. This hormone can interfere with the normal hair growth cycle.

The fact that stress-related hair loss is frequently of temporary impact is the only thing one may take solace in. However, you must deal with the problem before it gets worse. Among the stressors that may contribute to this syndrome are:

* Childbirth 
* Illness 
* Fever 
* Surgery 
* Emotional stress 
* Significant weight loss

In general, not all forms of stress result in hair loss. The type, intensity, and duration of the stress and your vulnerability will all impact how stress affects your body and, consequently, your hair.

Stress from Hair Loss: What are The types of Hair Loss That Stress Can Induce?

Stress is a factor in three different types of hair loss. Any such signs of hair loss are a clue that stress is to blame for losing hair. The three categories of hair loss ailments are listed below:

Telogen Effluvium

This is the most popular form of hair loss associated with high-stress levels. It is also considered the second most popular form of hair loss. It is a situation where chronic stress forces hair follicles into a resting phase, thereby interrupting the normal cycle of growth.

The symptoms of telogen effluvium may include:

* Obvious thinning of the hair, especially around the crown and on top of the head,

* Excessive hair loss that occurs frequently when brushing, combing, or washing your hair

* An apparent increase in the number of hairs on your comb, brush or drain.

So, if you see any of these symptoms, that should indicate that you are experiencing stress-related hair loss. After that, consider consulting with a skilled dermatologist.

Trichotillomania

Trichotillomania is just another form of hair loss condition associated with stress. Although, it is more of a physiological behavior than a hair condition. If you find yourself pulling out your hair after a stressful situation, it may indicate trichotillomania. 

People with trichotillomania often experience a strong sense of stress or anxiety before pulling out their hair and may feel a sense of relief or gratification afterward. They may also engage in other hair-pulling behaviors, such as twisting or twirling their hair.

The typical trichotillomania symptoms can range from minor to severe hair loss and may cause bald patches or thinning. When hair loss is extreme, it might be evident and noticeable to others.

Alopecia areata

In this circumstance, stress triggers your immune system to assault your hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. Alopecia areata may result in thinning hair in some persons, bald areas in others, or both. However, this hair loss problem may also be influenced by genetics.

Round or oval bald spots may form on the scalp or other body parts due to rapid, patchy hair loss. When hair loss is more severe, it might result in total baldness in some people.

How to Cope with Stress and Avoid Hair Loss

Hair loss from stress is sometimes reversible; now that you know how stress and hair loss are closely linked, you should also know what to do if you find yourself a victim:

Eating healthy: 

Starvation, crash dieting, and malnutrition are leading causes of telogen effluvium. So, if you want to turn things around, this can be the first step.
For healthy hair, some nutrients you should consider include protein; since keratin makes hair grow, it's crucial to get enough in your diet. Similarly, Red blood cells transport oxygen to all body cells, including hair follicles, required to produce iron. 

Also, Collagen is a protein that helps support the structure of hair, and zinc, a mineral, is necessary for its creation. Vitamin C, which can also support healthy hair growth, aids in the body's ability to absorb iron. Last but not least, water intake is also good for your hair.

Manage Your Stress: 

It also makes sense that you manage how you stress yourself and the activities you commit your body to. You will more likely experience hair loss if you engage in prolonged stressful activities.

Consider a hair transplant:  

If the circumstance has caused irreparable damage to your hair, getting a hair transplant is your best option to get your hair back to almost how it was before. It is regarded as one of the most excellent methods to fight hair loss.

Hair Transplant Pro has built a reputation for connecting individuals to the best hair transplant surgeons while providing other services such as first-class accommodation, pre-and post-treatment care, comfortable flight, and transportation to any of its 25 clinics in Mexico, the UK, Greece, and Turkey. Here's the perfect place to start if you are considering hair transplant options.

Are There Other Factors That Can Cause Hair Loss?

Yes! Stress is only one of many possible causes of hair loss. Genetics, specific drugs and specific medical conditions are a few additional variables that might cause hair loss. A dermatologist or expert healthcare professional should be seen if you are worried about hair loss to receive an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.