Hair Loss from Thyroid Disease

Hair loss is a common symptom of thyroid disease, particularly when the thyroid gland is either overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). Here’s how thyroid disease can lead to hair loss:

1. Hormonal Imbalance: Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in regulating metabolism, growth, and development. When there’s an imbalance in thyroid hormone levels, it can disrupt the hair growth cycle. In hypothyroidism, where thyroid hormone levels are low, hair growth may slow down, leading to thinning hair or hair loss. In hyperthyroidism, where thyroid hormone levels are high, hair loss can occur due to the accelerated hair growth cycle.
2. Nutritional Deficiencies: Thyroid disease can affect the body’s ability to absorb nutrients properly. For example, hypothyroidism can lead to deficiencies in iron and other nutrients essential for healthy hair growth. These deficiencies can contribute to hair loss.
3. Autoimmune Conditions: Autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (hypothyroidism) and Graves’ disease (hyperthyroidism) are associated with autoimmune reactions that can affect the hair follicles, leading to hair loss.
4. Stress: Managing thyroid disease can be stressful, both physically and emotionally. Stress is a common trigger for hair loss, and individuals with thyroid disease may experience increased stress levels, exacerbating the problem.
5. Medications: Certain medications used to treat thyroid disease, such as anti-thyroid drugs or synthetic thyroid hormones, may have side effects that include hair loss.