Hair fall not just about shampoo or oil: iron, thyroid and stress can be behind it
Nutrient deficiencies, thyroid problems, stress and heredity can all cause hair loss, and the root cause should be identified before trying supplements.
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Hair loss was once linked only to advancing age. Nowadays, young people too are facing heavy hair fall. In some cases, hair loss and baldness are being seen even before the age of 30.
Losing a few hairs while combing or bathing is considered normal. Losing 40 to 50 hairs a day is not regarded as a sign of a deficiency or illness. But if hair suddenly starts falling more, or its density reduces, care should be taken in time. Hair problems can affect not only appearance but also self-confidence.
People often blame shampoo or oil for hair fall. Frequently changing shampoo or oil can be troublesome for hair, but these are not always responsible. At times, nutrient deficiencies, thyroid problems, other illnesses, stress or genetic factors can increase hair fall. It is therefore extremely important to find the root cause of persistent hair loss.
The body needs adequate nutrients to keep hair strong. A deficiency of nutrients such as iron, protein, zinc or biotin can cause hair to fall. In many cases, people cut their calorie intake sharply to lose weight, which too can increase hair fall.
Iron deficiency can cause anaemia in many people. Symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, breathlessness and a rapid heartbeat may also be felt. If such symptoms appear along with hair fall, a doctor should be consulted and a blood test done. Rather than starting with hair supplements available easily in the market, it is important first to find out exactly which nutrient the body lacks.
The thyroid is a gland in the neck. It produces hormones that regulate many functions in the body. Thyroid problems can make hair thin, cause it to fall more heavily or change its texture. Hair problems can arise whether the thyroid gland becomes enlarged or shrinks. If hair fall is accompanied by constant fatigue, weight loss or gain, feeling very cold, constipation and skin problems, a doctor should be consulted and a thyroid test done.
According to health experts, heredity is one of the most common causes of hair fall. If someone in the family has a history of hair problems or baldness, care should be taken from childhood.
