UNCONTROLLABLY SHEDDING HAIR IN THE SHOWER?
Hair loss can be a deeply distressing experience for many, triggering anxiety and a constant search for solutions. It's perfectly normal to lose between 50 to 100 hairs a day as part of the natural hair growth cycle. However, when you notice an increase in shedding, it can be alarming.
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Imagine this: you're in the shower, washing your hair, and as you run your fingers through your locks, you notice a clump of hair swirling down the drain. Panic sets in, and questions flood your mind. "Is this normal? Am I losing too much hair?" This scenario is all too familiar for many, sparking a cycle of anxiety and worry.
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The reality is that numerous factors can contribute to excessive hair shedding, such as hormonal imbalances, nutritional deficiencies, stress, and even genetics. Identifying the root cause is essential in addressing the issue and finding an effective solution.
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What Causes Hair Loss?
Hair loss can be distressing, but understanding its root causes can help in finding the right solutions. Here are some of the common culprits:
​​1. Nutritional Deficiencies
Lack of essential nutrients can cause hair loss. Deficiencies in vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Zinc, Iron, and Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) can impact hair health. Dr. Reem can assess nutrient levels and recommend dietary changes and supplements to address these deficiencies.
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2. Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to meet the body’s needs. Hair loss can be one of the early signs of this condition, along with fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance.
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3. Celiac Disease or Gluten Intolerance
Celiac disease is an immune reaction to eating gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. For those with celiac disease, consuming gluten triggers an immune response in the small intestine, damaging its lining over time. This leads to malabsorption of nutrients, resulting in symptoms like diarrhea, fatigue, weight loss, bloating, and anemia, which can contribute to hair loss.
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4. Drug-Induced Hair Loss
Certain medications can lead to hair loss!
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5. Hormone-related
Androgens, including testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a significant role in hair health. While they are often associated with male development, androgens are present in both males and females. In females, androgen-related hair loss can occur due to genetics, excess androgen production, insulin resistance, diabetes, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and low antioxidant status. Blood work can help determine the underlying issues, and there are botanical treatments available to address them.
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6. Autoimmune Disorders (Alopecia):
Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks hair follicles, leading to hair loss in patches. The extent of hair loss can vary, and while some people may see their hair grow back, others may continue to experience hair loss. Naturopathic treatments, including herbal remedies, can help stabilize autoimmune diseases.
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7. Stress
Stress can significantly impact hair health, leading to several types of hair loss:
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Telogen Effluvium: Significant stress pushes hair follicles into a resting phase, leading to sudden hair shedding.
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Trichotillomania: An irresistible urge to pull out hair, often triggered by stress, tension, or frustration.
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Alopecia Areata: Severe stress may trigger the immune system to attack hair follicles.
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Managing stress through lifestyle changes, diet, and herbal supplements can help reduce its impact on hair loss.
Example Treatment Routes for Hair Loss
Treating hair loss effectively requires identifying its cause. Dr. Reem takes an individualized approach, conducting tests to determine the underlying issue. Depending on the cause, treatment may include:
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Improving nutrient intake and absorption
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Enhancing thyroid hormone, estrogen, or progesterone production (potentially through Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy, BHRT)
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Lowering excess testosterone, DHEAs, and DHT
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Stress reduction techniques and adrenal support
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Addressing food sensitivities and using appropriate herbs for autoimmune hair loss
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