Remedy for Thinning Hair Due to Hashimoto's Disease
Hair loss is a common symptom of Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, a disorder that causes the thyroid hormones to get out of whack, because it destroys thyroid cells. It's the most common cause of hypothyroidism occurring in roughly 3.5 percent of women and 0.8 percent of men each year, according to Endocrinologists, Stephanie L. Lee, MD, Ph.D; Sylvester Odeke, MD; and Steven B. Nagelberg, MD, in an article on Medscape.-
Treatment
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Once your thyroid hormones are back in balance, your hair should begin to grow back. Thyroid hormone replacement, usually with a medication called levothyroxine (brand names Synthroid or Levoxyl) is the standard treatment for Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, according to drugs.com. (See References 2) It will take approximately 90 days for you to see if your hair is growing back (although you may see it sooner). Let your health care practitioner know if you don't see hair thickening, as you may need additional medication.
In addition to medication, you can also employ strategies to strengthen your hair follicles, while you wait for the medication to work. Massaging the head is helpful in bringing blood to the scalp and nourishing the hair follicles. Adding some olive oil to the massage will help to loosen dirt and oil from the base of the hair, which can inhibit growth. Leave the oil in overnight and rinse out in the morning. Try this treatment once a week, while you are awaiting the results of your medication treatment.
Other Diagnoses
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Some people report hair loss continuing after beginning the medication. If that is the case, and your doctor believes you are taking enough medication, the hair loss may be genetic or due to other fluctuating hormones . If your hair loss continues, you may consider hairpieces or weaves to cosmetically enhance your appearance.
Hair Thickeners
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According to, "Understanding Hair Loss" (See References 3), hair thickeners can also help with thinning hair. You may have to try several to find one that thickens your hair the best. Your salon may carry a line of hair thickeners, including Kerasome (which uses human hair as the thickening agent), Toppik and Couvre. (See Resources 1 and 2)
In addition, some shampoos can help your hair to look thicker and healthier. Nioxin treats both the hair and the scalp in system that many users find thickens hair, according to a study reported at the company's website. (See Resources 3)
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