What is hair loss an indicator of?

Author: Israel Heidenreich  |  Last update: Wednesday, July 9, 2025

Symptom of a medical illness — Hair loss can be one of the symptoms of a medical illness, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (lupus), syphilis, a thyroid disorder (such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), a sex-hormone imbalance or a serious nutritional problem, especially a deficiency of protein, iron, zinc or ...

Is hair loss a symptom of anything?

Hair loss (alopecia) can affect just your scalp or your entire body, and it can be temporary or permanent. It can be the result of heredity, hormonal changes, medical conditions or a normal part of aging. Anyone can lose hair on their head, but it's more common in men.

Which deficiency causes hair fall?

Only riboflavin, biotin, folate, and vitamin B12 deficiencies have been associated with hair loss.

Which disease indicates hair fall?

Alopecia areata is a disease that happens when the immune system attacks hair follicles and causes hair loss. Hair follicles are the structures in skin that form hair. While hair can be lost from any part of the body, alopecia areata usually affects the head and face.

What am I lacking if my hair is falling out?

Nutritional deficiencies

Extreme diets that are too low in protein or certain vitamins, such as iron, can sometimes cause excessive hair shedding. A person should contact a doctor for a blood test to check whether they have a nutritional deficiency that could be causing their hair to fall out.

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Why am I suddenly losing so much hair?

Among the common causes are high fevers, childbirth, severe infections, severe chronic illness, severe psychological stress, major surgery or illnesses, over or under active thyroid gland, crash diets with inadequate protein, and a variety of medications.

Which vitamin helps to stop hair fall?

Vitamin D plays a major role in the creation of new hair follicles. It is crucial when it comes to hair production and aids thicker, stronger hair. Vitamin D also prevents existing hair from prematurely falling out, curbing hair fall. Low levels of vitamin D can lead to hair loss.

What does thyroid hair loss look like?

Severe and prolonged hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can cause loss of hair. The loss is diffuse and involves the entire scalp rather than discrete areas. The hair appears uniformly sparse.

What disorders make your hair fall out?

Types of Hair Loss
  • Androgenetic Alopecia. Androgenetic alopecia is the most common type of hair loss, affecting more than 50 million men and 30 million women in the United States. ...
  • Telogen Effluvium. ...
  • Anagen Effluvium. ...
  • Alopecia Areata. ...
  • Tinea Capitis. ...
  • Cicatricial Alopecia. ...
  • Hair Shaft Abnormalities. ...
  • Hypotrichosis.

How do I stop hair falling out?

To help prevent hair loss:
  1. Eat a healthy diet that includes enough calories, protein and iron.
  2. Find ways to cope with stress.
  3. Manage thyroid disease or other medical conditions that could result in hair loss.
  4. Avoid hairstyles that pull hair tightly.
  5. During chemotherapy treatment, try a cooling cap.

What is a hair pull test?

This simple test measures the severity of hair loss. During a pull test, a dermatologist grasps small sections of hair, about 40 strands, from different parts of the scalp and gently tugs. If six or more strands fall out, you have what's known as active hair loss.

Will low iron cause hair loss?

Low iron levels can lead to hair loss. Iron deficiency can trigger a condition called telogen effluvium, which increases hair shedding and limits hair growth. Iron deficiency hair loss can be reversed if you get your iron levels back to normal. Oral iron supplements can help replenish your body's iron stores.

What organ can cause hair loss?

If you have a problem with your thyroid, you may see thinning hair. Some people notice that their hair comes out in clumps when they brush it. Is regrowth possible? Yes, treating the thyroid disease can reverse the hair loss.

What can be mistaken for hair loss?

Some women experience thinning over the lateral scalp. Common conditions that mimic androgenetic alopecia include thyroid disease, iron deficiency anemia, and malnutrition.

What to eat to grow hair faster?

  • Eggs. Eggs contain various proteins that boost collagen production. ...
  • Green Leafy Vegetables. Green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamins A, C, carotene, folate, and potassium. ...
  • Vitamin C-Rich Citrus Fruits. ...
  • Seeds and Nuts. ...
  • Carrots. ...
  • Whole Grain. ...
  • Soybeans. ...
  • Avocado.

How do I know if I'm losing too much hair?

It may be a sign that you're losing too much hair if: Increased shedding. Thinning or bald spots. Changes in hairline.

What vitamin deficiency test for hair fall?

A vitamin deficiency test is a laboratory test to diagnose a micronutrient deficiency. Our body needs micronutrients, including vitamins and minerals. Even though we need only tiny quantities of these substances, they're critical for our health and well-being.

What blood issues cause hair loss?

Anemia means insufficient oxygen-rich blood is delivered throughout the body to promote cell health and growth. This may impact hair and follicle health and lead to hair loss or brittleness.

What part of the body itches with thyroid problems?

Where might a person itch with thyroid problems? Itching can occur anywhere on the body, but often occurs in crevices such as the armpits, elbows, and groin.

What neurological disorder causes hair loss?

Menke′s syndrome and Elejalde disease are the two neurodegenerative disorders of dermatological interest. These patients present with characteristic hair changes which may be of diagnostic value in resource-poor setup where facilities for specific genetic analysis are not available.

What is a thyroid belly?

A common symptom of an underactive thyroid is weight gain, often around the abdomen. However, the American Thyroid Association states that the weight gain may not necessarily be due to the build up of fat, but the accumulation of salt and water.

What is the number one vitamin for hair loss?

Biotin remains commonly recommended by hair loss specialists at doses up to 5,000 mcg.

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