Hair loss during menopause can be one of the most frustrating parts of menopause. Some women have more hair fall, widening of the part, and decrease in thickness on their scalp. Luckily for these women, hair loss during menopause is not always irreversible, as some women suffer from chronic hair loss.
One reason can be hormonal change; however, other causes can also lead to hair loss.
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Why Does Hair Loss Happen During Menopause?
Hormonal Changes
In the case of perimenopause and menopause, levels of estrogen drop. Estrogen is involved in hair growth and maintenance. This is why the hormone imbalance can result in decreased hair growth and excessive hair fall.
Furthermore, some women may experience an enhanced sensitivity to androgens.
Other Possible Causes
Hair loss should not be considered an automatic consequence of menopause. There could be other causes that include the following:
- Iron deficiency
- Thyroid issues
- Extreme stress
- Sudden weight loss
- Protein deficiency
- Medication
- Hereditary hair loss
- Scalp conditions
A healthcare professional can determine what might be causing the hair loss if it happens suddenly, severely, or persists.
Is Menopausal Hair Loss Permanent?
Hair May Regrow
The answer to whether hair grows back will be dependent on the cause. For cases where hair loss is due to factors like stress, nutrition issues, and hormonal imbalances, the situation can be improved.
However, for cases of female pattern baldness, hair loss may continue gradually. Early intervention may help control further loss.
| Cause | May Hair Regrow? | Typical Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Hormonal changes | Often possible | Medical tests and treatment |
| Nutritional deficiency | Often possible | Correct the deficiency |
| Stress-related shedding | Variable | Hair-growth treatment |
| Thyroid-related loss | Often possible | Treat thyroid problem |
Treatment Options for Menopausal Hair Loss
Minoxidil
One of the methods employed in the treatment of female-pattern hair loss (FPHL) includes the use of topical minoxidil. This method may help in reducing hair fall and stimulating hair growth among women who experience the problem; however, patience is required in this case.
A health care provider can help to establish whether this approach is right for you.
Treating Underlying Problems
In case hair fall is caused by iron deficiency, thyroid problems, malnutrition, or any other medical condition, dealing with the underlying condition may help to boost hair growth.
Do not use supplements such as iron or biotin just because you have thinning hair. It is most beneficial in cases where deficiency of something has been diagnosed. Women can take hair loss medications like Fincar and Finpecia tablets.
How Can You Support Healthy Hair?
Everyday Hair Care
The following practices can assist in preventing further damage to the hair:
- Take an adequate amount of protein and healthy food.
- Do not tie your hair too tight.
- Do not use too much heat to style your hair.
- Do not use rough chemicals on your hair.
- Manage stress and get plenty of sleep.
However, these actions will not save you from all types of hair loss.
When Should You See a Physician or Dermatologist?
In case of sudden shedding of hair, patches of hair loss, skin irritation, or hair loss becoming progressively worse, consult a healthcare practitioner. The doctor will examine your history, perform a scalp examination, and conduct blood tests when required.
Bottom Line
The loss of hair during menopause is quite typical. The hormonal imbalance may be the reason for that; however, there can be other reasons behind that phenomenon such as heredity, poor nutrition, stress, problems with the thyroid gland, and others. It is essential to find out the cause because the treatment will depend on it. Noticing more hair loss during menopause? Talk to a medical practitioner to identify the cause and discuss suitable treatment options for healthier hair growth. Follow Medipedia to understand the various causes of hair loss and get precise information about hair loss medication and treatment.