Diabetes and Hair Loss
If an individual is losing hair in more than normal quantities, and the loss does not appear to be common pattern hair loss, examination by a medical professional would be warranted. Often, significant hair loss can be linked to diabetes. This is because diabetes is a disease that is hormone related, and this imbalance can often be seen first in loss of hair. The links between hair loss and diabetes are as follows:
1.Diabetes causes poor blood circulation. Poor blood circulation can and affect the ability of hair follicles to operate normally. Normally, hair grows for 2-6 years; then it goes through a dormant period, and eventually it dies and falls out as a new strand is produced in the follicle to push it out. When blood circulation is poor, the follicle is not producing a new strand as normal, the old strand dies and falls out, and there is no replacement hair. Further, strands tend to die and fall out more quickly when blood circulation to the head area is poor. Therefore, more hair falls out and is not replaced, creating much thinner hair.
2. Diabetics are more susceptible to skin conditions, and skin conditions on the scalp can cause hair loss. Both bacterial and fungal infections of the scalp can interrupt the normal growth process of hair.
3.The medication often prescribed and taken for diabetes can interrupt the normal cycle of hair growth. More often, this is reversed as the body adjusts to the medication, but anyone beginning medications should be aware of this.
4.Diabetes causes both physiological and psychological stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety are direct factors in hair loss. Dehydration is a factor as well. When coupled with stress, it can be a killer for hair. If you have hair loss related to diabetes, here are some helpful tips:
a. Wait to see if the condition will sort itself once you have been on your medication for some time. This may take a few or more months. But do not wait too long, a period of 3 to 6 months should be sufficient.
b. Keep your body hydrated. Eight glasses (8 0z. each) of clear water should be consumed daily, no matter what other liquids you consume. Try also fruit juice, but of course without the sugar.
c. Exercise regularly. Exercise increases blood circulation, and your head will be a recipient of that increased circulation. You don’t have to run 10km or go for lung busting exercises. A daily brisk walk for about 45 minutes can do wonders for your body. It is always helpful to get your physician’s advice before embarking on any kind of exercise.
d. Try Yoga or some other form of relaxation and mediation to relieve stress and anxiety. But if you cannot find the time for that, then try this simple meditation; find a comfortable place where you will not be interrupted. Relax and close your eyes. Breathe in slowly and breathe out. Only concentrate on your breathing. Shut everything out. Do this for 5 minutes whenever you feel overwhelmed.
Diabetes is a significant diagnosis and a life-changing illness. Follow your physician’s instructions carefully and continue to do those things that you know are good for your general health. Hair health is affected by all that you do and consume
Author Bio: For more information on hair loss, visit Stop Hair Loss
Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: hair, loss, diabetes