Telogen effluvium is a temporary hair loss phenomenon often triggered by significant stress, traumatic events, or shocks. It’s most noticeable on the scalp’s top. If someone experiences recurrent episodes of hair shedding spanning several months, it’s termed chronic telogen effluvium.
This condition is distinct from another hair loss disorder known as alopecia areata. While significant hair loss can occur with telogen effluvium, it’s typically a transient phase, with hair regrowth following soon after.
Defining Telogen Effluvium
Telogen effluvium manifests as increased hair shedding or thinning. If someone undergoes frequent hair-shedding episodes lasting beyond six months, they’re said to have chronic telogen effluvium. Fortunately, this condition is typically transient.
While the hair thinning can be significant, complete hair loss doesn’t occur. The condition is a result of disruptions in the hair growth cycle, which consists of:
- Anagen – Growth phase
- Catagen – Transitional phase
- Telogen – Resting phase
Under normal circumstances, only 5-10% of hair is in the telogen phase. However, with telogen effluvium, the anagen phase’s duration reduces, leading to increased hair in the telogen phase and subsequent shedding.
Identifying the Symptoms
The primary indication of telogen effluvium is enhanced hair shedding. This can be observed during hair washing or brushing, with increased hair found in drains or on pillows.
Root Causes
Several factors can disrupt the hair cycle, leading to telogen effluvium:
- Intense Stress: Hair loss can manifest around three months after a stressful event.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Hair growth requires essential nutrients like protein, iron, B vitamins, and zinc. A deficiency can impact hair quality and volume.
- Rapid Weight Loss: Extreme weight loss or prolonged calorie restriction can lead to hair shedding.
- Pregnancy & Childbirth: Hormonal shifts post-childbirth can cause hair loss, known as post-partum telogen effluvium.
- Menopause: Hormonal changes during menopause can trigger the condition.
- Medications & Drugs: Some drugs can induce hair loss.
- Health Conditions: Autoimmune diseases, thyroid-related conditions, and alopecia areata can be culprits.
- Surgery: The type of surgery, hospital stay duration, medications, and nutritional status can influence hair health.
- Metal Exposure: Toxic chemicals in metals can cause hair loss.
Interventions
The treatment approach for telogen effluvium hinges on its underlying cause. Once identified and addressed, the hair growth cycle should resume its normal rhythm. Potential treatments include:
- Nutritional interventions
- Non-invasive hair replacement techniques
- Hormone replacement therapies for menopausal individuals
- Stress and anxiety management through counselling
It’s advisable to avoid chemical treatments or excessive heat that might further damage the hair.
Dietary Recommendations
- Protein: Essential for hair growth. Incorporate protein-rich foods like meat, eggs, fish, beans, grains, and nuts.
- Iron: An iron-rich diet can combat hair loss. Include foods like red meat, liver, leafy greens, beans, and lentils.
- Supplements: Consider short-term supplementation to enhance nutritional status.
For expert guidance, consult a dermatologist or trichologist.
Hair Regrowth
Post addressing the root cause, hair typically regrows within 3-6 months. In some cases, shedding might reduce but not cease entirely. Generally, no more than half of the hair is lost.
Diagnosing the Condition
To diagnose telogen effluvium, doctors will inspect the fallen hairs. Various tests can assist in the diagnosis, differentiating it from conditions like alopecia.
Future Prospects
Telogen effluvium is a prevalent temporary hair loss cause, often emerging a few months post a triggering incident. It typically lasts up to six months, with chronic cases extending beyond this period. While no specific cure exists, lifestyle and dietary modifications can expedite hair regrowth.
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