Is It True That Diabetes Causes Hair Loss?
By mdssite | November 2, 2009
According to the 2005 National Statistics done by the American Diabetes Association, about 21 million of Americans have diabetes while 54 million are in the pre-diabetes stage. Despite the prevalence of diabetes, it is surprising to know that not many people are really clear about it. For instance, can it really cause hair loss? To answer this question, let’s first discuss the basic details about hair growth.
The Hair Growth Cycle
In a healthy person, the range of hair growth cycle can last from 2 to 6 years. Each month, it is estimated that the hair in our heads grow about at least a half inch longer. This is known as the “anagen stage”.
The next stage in the cycle would be the “telogen stage” or the “resting phase”. During this stage, hair stays in its place for at least two to three months. After this, hair would shed and new hair will start to grow to replace it. This is the hair growth cycle that repeats year after year.
Diabetes and Hair Loss
Can diabetes cause hair loss? The fact is people with diabetes are more prone to skin infections and this includes the scalp. Fungal infections in our scalp can lead to weaker hair strands and eventually, hair may fall out. Another factor that can cause hair loss is stress. Medications for diabetes may have side effects and one of them could be hair falling out.
How You Can Protect Yourself From Hair Loss
To avoid hair loss, the key is to keep diabetes in control. Monitoring your blood sugar level can make a big difference not only in keeping your scalp healthy, but more importantly, in preventing serious complications that are associated with the disease such as stroke, heart diseases, kidney failure, blindness, sexual dysfunction, gum diseases, etc.
There are instances when the hair loss requires special attention and treatment. If hair loss is caused by fungal infection, a certain medicine can be administered to get rid of the infection. Oils or other medications can also be taken to promote hair regrowth. Nevertheless, it is very important to consult your doctor first before taking in any kind of medication for the treatment of hair loss.
Another option that a diabetic can consider is acquiring hair transplant. This surgical procedure is done by taking hair from another area of the head and replanting it on the bald area of the scalp.
Experts recommend following a balanced diet to ensure that our body, including our scalp gets all the nutrition it needs. Exercise is also advised not just to prevent thinning hair but to keep the body healthy and free from complications as well.