Stress and Hair Loss

There are many different reasons why you may be experiencing hair loss. Genetics, prescription drugs, hormonal problems and even nutritional deficiencies can lead to the excessive loss of hair. Another common cause of non-genetic hair loss is stress. While everyone experiences stress from time to time, sometimes it can reach a harmful level.

Stress related hair loss is technically known as Telogen Effluvium. With this disorder, the hair enters what is known as a resting phase. This usually lasts around three months and is a period when the hair ceases to grow. At the end of this phase, hair begins falling out in large quantities. Sometimes, the cause of the stress still exists at this point. Other times, the stressful event is over and the person losing hair is confused as to why this is occurring.

Stressful events that may lead to Telogen Effluvium include childbirth, a death in the family, the loss of a job, divorce, or any other event that can be classified as potentially traumatic. It's also possible that a prolonged period of elevated stress from family tension or overwork can cause this type of hair loss. Even illness, disease, or surgery can be stressful enough to cause the hair to fall out.

Stress based hair loss is usually manifested as thinning hair all over the scalp. This can sometimes lead to bald patches. Usually, however, you'll just find that your hair is a lot thinner all over than it normally is. The good news is, if you manage the stress that's led to the hair loss, you can encourage your hair to grow back in.

There are lots of ways to reduce and manage the stress in your life. While you can't always control the circumstances around you, you can control your reactions to those circumstances. Taking time each day to relax with a hot bath or good book can help you unwind. Many people find that breathing exercises and meditation provide stress relief. Exercise has also been shown to be highly effective in not only relieving tension, but promoting total body health as well. It's also a good idea to make sure you're eating a variety of healthy and nutritious foods. If you're having trouble managing stress, it's a good idea to seek counseling. Stress and hair loss can go hand in hand, but by treating the stress, you can often get rid of the hair loss.

Copyright 2006 Jim Sterling - All Rights Reserved

The Bald Truth, Hair loss fact and fiction


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