Quite often, significant hair loss can alert an individual to the
possibility of the development of diabetes. If an individual is losing
hair in larger than normal quantities, and the loss does not appear to
be common pattern hair loss, evaluation by a medical professional would
be warranted. The reason is this: diabetes is a disease that is
hormonal 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 affect the ability of hair follicles to operate normally. Under
normal conditions, hair grows for 2-6 years; then it goes into a period
of dormancy, 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 suggestions:
1. Wait to see if the condition will right itself once you have
been on your medication for some time. This may take a few or more
months.
2. Keep your body hydrated. Eight glasses (8 0z. each) should be consumed daily, no matter what other liquids you consume.
3. Exercise regularly. Exercise increases blood circulation, and
your head will be a recipient of that increased circulation. Your
follicles will love you for it.
4. Try Yoga or some other form of relaxation to relieve stress and
anxiety.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.
For more information visit: Provillus
