Hair Loss in Women With Thyroid Problems

Many women experience hair loss throughout their lifetime. However, unlike men who suffer baldness, women usually only see a thinning of the hair, not complete baldness. Stress, excessive chemical treatments, or stress to the hair can all cause hair loss. However, another factor for extreme hair loss, and much more common than you might realize, is Thyroid disease.

Significance

• Hair loss is a common symptom of Thyroid disease, and is found on most symptom checklists. However, it is not the sole indicator of thyroid disease.

Time Frame

• Hair loss usually appears as a secondary symptom, showing up if the disease goes undiagnosed or untreated. Early on, hair tends to be dry and brittle.

Effects

• Because of the thyroid problem, hair loss is persistent, and can not be directly treated or stopped. Hair will appear thin, but will not result in complete baldness.

Treatment

• Treatment includes synthetic replacement thyroid hormones. A pill is prescribed based on the results of a blood test and is used to determine the necessary strength. Follow-up tests are used to determine if any changes in dosage are necessary. This treatment will only slow the hair loss, not cure it.

Warnings

• In women that have family medical history including autoimmune disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, TSH screenings are suggested. Other factors that can bring on thyroid disease are radiation exposure, thyroid surgery to remove cancer or goiter, or exposure to pesticides. Women experiencing hair loss in combination with several other symptoms should report them to a doctor.

Other Symptoms of Thyroid Problems

• You might have a thyroid condition if you are experiencing hair loss. Tests are warranted if any of these other symptoms are also present:
  Fatigue
  Weight gain/Inability to lose weight
  Sensitivity to cold temperatures
  Moodiness, irritability, or depression
  Inability to concentrate
  Dry, itchy skin