Hair Loss and Thyroid Disorders: Understanding Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

Hair loss can have various causes, and one common but often overlooked factor is a thyroid dysfunction. The thyroid gland plays a key role in regulating vital body functions, including hair growth, through its production of thyroid hormones. When the thyroid produces too few or too many hormones, it can disrupt the natural hair growth cycle, leading to hair thinning and loss.

In this article, we will explore the connection between thyroid disorders and hair loss, the symptoms associated with these conditions, and the available treatments. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact Turkeyana Clinic.

How Does Thyroid Dysfunction Cause Hair Loss?

The thyroid gland produces two primary hormones, T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which regulate the body’s metabolism and influence the hair growth cycle. Hair follicles follow a natural growth pattern consisting of three phases:

Anagen (Growth Phase): Hair follicles actively produce new hair during this phase, which can last for several years.
Catagen (Transition Phase): This short phase (1-2 weeks) signals the end of active hair growth, as the hair follicle begins to shrink.
Telogen (Resting Phase): The hair stops growing and eventually falls out. This phase lasts around 10-12 weeks.

When the balance of thyroid hormones is disturbed, either due to an underactive or overactive thyroid, the normal functioning of hair follicles is disrupted. This leads to hair becoming weak, brittle, and thin, with premature hair loss occurring in some cases.

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

Hypothyroidism refers to a condition where the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient amounts of thyroid hormones, specifically T3 and T4.

Common Symptoms of Hypothyroidism:

Fatigue and lack of energy
Slow metabolism, often resulting in weight gain
Dry and rough skin
Hair thinning and brittle hair
Sensitivity to cold
Depression or low mood
Constipation
Slow heart rate and low blood pressure

Causes of Hypothyroidism:

In adults, the most common cause of hypothyroidism is Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism is more prevalent in women, particularly in middle age, and can also occur temporarily after pregnancy.

Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

Hyperthyroidism, on the other hand, occurs when the thyroid gland produces excessive amounts of thyroid hormones, leading to an overactive metabolism.

Common Symptoms of Hyperthyroidism:

Increased heart rate, even during rest
Sensitivity to heat and excessive sweating
Unexplained weight loss despite increased appetite
Nervousness, anxiety, or restlessness
Thinning, brittle hair
Trembling hands

Causes of Hyperthyroidism:

The most frequent cause of hyperthyroidism is Graves’ disease, another autoimmune condition in which the immune system stimulates the thyroid to produce too many hormones. Hyperthyroidism can also result from taking too many thyroid hormone supplements.

Changes in Hair Due to Thyroid Disorders

When the thyroid hormones are out of balance, hair may appear dull, brittle, and weak, leading to diffuse hair loss that can affect not only the scalp but also body hair such as eyebrows, eyelashes, and body hair on the arms and legs. Over time, untreated thyroid disorders can lead to noticeable patches of hair loss or thinning, which can be particularly distressing for individuals.

Diagnosis and Treatment of Thyroid-Related Hair Loss

Diagnosing thyroid dysfunction can be challenging due to the wide range of symptoms that may also indicate other conditions. Blood tests to measure levels of thyroid hormones (T3, T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) are typically used to confirm thyroid disorders.

Treating the underlying thyroid imbalance is essential for restoring hair health. In most cases, medication to regulate hormone levels can help manage thyroid dysfunction. For hypothyroidism, hormone replacement therapy is commonly prescribed, while hyperthyroidism may require anti-thyroid medications or, in severe cases, surgery.

Hair Regrowth and Corrective Treatments

Once thyroid hormone levels are stabilized, many individuals notice an improvement in their hair health, with regrowth occurring over time. However, if the hair loss persists or if areas of the scalp have not recovered fully, advanced treatments like Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) therapy or hair transplant surgery may be necessary to restore hair density.

At Turkeyana Clinic, we specialize in comprehensive hair restoration treatments. Whether you’re dealing with hair thinning due to thyroid disorders or other causes, we offer personalized solutions to help you achieve natural-looking, lasting results.

If you suspect that your hair loss is related to a thyroid condition, don’t hesitate to seek professional guidance. Contact us today to explore your treatment options and begin your journey towards healthier hair.