Arsenic & Hair Loss

Arsenic is a naturally occurring element most commonly recognized for its use as a poison. In humans, even low level arsenic exposure can result in a range of adverse side effects such as hair loss.

Identification

• Arsenic is tasteless, odorless and colorless. It typically combines with other elements to create organic and inorganic compounds. While both types may be toxic to humans, inorganic arsenic is generally considered to be the more harmful of the two.

Uses

• Arsenic is used in a number of products including insecticides, wood preservatives and some medicines.

Accidental Exposure

• Arsenic exposure in humans occurs due to inhalation, ingestion or physical contact. Some jobs, such as those that involve the use of pesticides, may pose a greater risk of accidental arsenic exposure. However, arsenic may also be present in food, cigarettes, drinking water and household products like laundry detergent.

Effects

• Hair loss is just one symptom of arsenic exposure. Other effects include nausea, headaches, convulsions and death.

Diagnosis

• Arsenic poisoning is commonly diagnosed through hair analysis, as traces of the substance tend to remain in the hair for years.

Treatment

• Arsenic poisoning is usually addressed with treatments for heavy metal detoxification.