Hair Loss With Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease affects people from all walks of life, but people who have a Jewish family background are at a greater risk of developing the disease. Weight loss is the most common symptom associated with this disease, but hair loss may also occur.

Identification

• Crohn's disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that can run in families. Ulcers and swelling in different areas of the digestive system are common with this disease. Malabsorption of nutrients may occur with this disease, resulting in hair loss from vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

Symptoms

• Weight loss and diarrhea are symptoms of Crohn's disease; other symptoms may be sores in the mouth, blocked bowels, and anal tears. These symptoms can make it difficult to gain adequate nutrition, and proper nutrition is essential to treating and preventing hair loss.

Potential

• Crohn's disease can lead to deficiencies of vitamins such as zinc, which can lead to thinning of the hair and hair loss. It may be necessary to take a vitamin supplement in order to reduce the amount of hair lost.

Theories/Speculation

• Malabsorption of nutrients is a common problem in people with Crohn's disease. This may lead to malnutrition, which develops slowly over time. Approximately 25 percent to 80 percent of people with Crohn's disease develop malnutrition, and some of them suffer hair loss.

Considerations

• Consult your doctor if you have Crohn's disease and suffer hair loss or thinning of the hair. There may be vitamin supplements that your doctor can recommend to help with the problem.