Brittle, dry hair that weakens and falls out easily is a common symptom of thyroid disease.
The hair follicles are particularly sensitive to the state of health of the organism and tend to slow down their activity in the presence of significant psychophysical stress. In this way it is possible to allocate more energy resources to support vital functions.It is therefore not surprising that increased hair loss is a common finding in the presence of nutritional deficiencies, infections, undergoing surgery, burns, hormonal changes and various diseases, including thyroid diseases.
The patient may complain of a bad state of health of their hair both in the presence of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. In addition to the possible increase in the fall, which generally occurs in tufts, the hair can become brittle, smooth and dull.
Although in the vast majority of people hair loss is an almost physiological event (see androgenetic alopecia), the hypothesis of an underlying thyroid disease should not be underestimated, especially in the presence of familiarity with this type of disorder and female sex. women are in fact more protected from hair loss than men, which is why this symptom must be viewed with greater concern.
The treatment of thyroid diseases very often stops hair loss, even if it takes a few months to appreciate a certain aesthetic improvement. However, some drugs used in the treatment of these diseases - such as eutirox (levothyroxine) - can promote hair loss, especially if taken in inadequate quantities. For this reason, if once the right therapeutic dose has been identified, the problem persists. , it is necessary to notify the doctor and undergo a dermatological examination to rule out other predisposing conditions.
Symptoms of hypothyroidism include weakness, easy fatigue, dry skin, reduced cold tolerance, constipation and depression. If any of these symptoms add up to increased hair loss it is important to get them for medical attention. A simple examination blood may confirm or rule out a link between hypothyroidism and increased hair loss.
In this case it will be necessary to clearly state one's condition and the medications taken, so that any therapy to stop hair loss does not interfere with the medicines used to treat the thyroid disorder. The possible options are different: supplements to fill any deficiencies , topical lotions, caffeine shampoos, specific drugs such as minoxidil and finasteride, hair transplant and the unwelcome use of hairpieces.