When it comes to hair, most people only ever think about how they can style it, cut it, and color it. But many experts have said, that our hair can actually tell more about our health than we think. If you follow your hair’s growth patterns and observe it closely, then you may be able to catch major health conditions before they escalate. Keep reading to figure out just what your hair can truly be telling you about your health.
Dry, Thin Hair
There are a lot of factors that contribute to dry and thin hair. You could simply be over processing your hair, using too many heat products, or brushing it too often. However, if your hair becomes dry and thin very suddenly, then you may have a thyroid issue. Under active thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can lead to your hair being thinner and a lot dryer. If your hair has become thin and dry suddenly, and you are also feeling fatigued, gaining weight, have a slow heart rate and feel cold often, then you might need to ask your doctor about a simple blood test to test your thyroid levels.
Scaly or Crusty Areas on your Scalp
Scales and scabs on your scalp usually are indicative of the skin condition psoriasis. This condition can sometimes be confused for regular dandruff, because it does cause dandruff-like flaking. However, this condition will also cause scales and scabs to form over part or your entire scalp. Psoriasis can also affect other parts of your body, so if you have a similar rash on your skin in other areas, then you definitely need to talk with your doctor as soon as possible. Psoriasis is an autoimmune disease that affects millions of people worldwide, and most of the time, it occurs in conjunction with another autoimmune disease. So, if you are experiencing symptoms of psoriasis, then you should mention it to your doctor quickly to get tested for it and numerous other diseases.
Thinning Hair
The average person loses around 100 to 150 strands of hair per day. This is the result of your body’s natural processes and turnover. As you lose hair, new hair comes through. However, if you are losing an abundant amount of hair each day, then you could be dealing with a bigger issue. Increased hair loss can occur due to stress, diabetes, and even medication. Many medications list hair loss as a possible side effect. If you are losing a lot of hair each day, then talk with your doctor. They can determine the root cause of your hair loss, and figure out how to fix the problem before your hair thins out.
Traditional Pattern Baldness
Both men and women can be prone to traditional pattern baldness. This occurs as you age, and affects numerous people worldwide. However, if you are noticing that your hair is thinning considerably, and it starts around your crown, then you may also be dealing with a hormonal imbalance. Hormonal imbalances can cause traditional pattern baldness symptoms. Talk with your doctor if you are losing your hair in this manner. They will be able to determine if you are losing your hair due to aging, or if you have a hormone imbalance that can be easily fixed.
Hair Breakage
If your hair is dry and brittle, and breaks off easily, then you may simply be over processing it. Dry, brittle hair that breaks easily is often a sign that you have colored your hair too frequently, or you are using too many heat tools on it. However, it can also be a sign of a few different health conditions. Dry, brittle hair could be indicative of hypoparathyroidism or Cushing’s Disease. Both of these diseases cause nutrient and hormone changes that could lead to your hair changing texture.
Circular Patches of Hair Loss
If your hair begins to fall out in small, circular patterns, then it may be a sign that your immune system is wreaking havoc on your hair. Whenever your immune system decides to attack your hair follicle, it often results in small circles of hair falling out. This condition is known as alopecia areata, and can occur as a result of diabetes or other autoimmune disorders. If you notice this type of hair loss, then talk to your doctor as soon as possible in order to get your immune system back on track and your hair back to its normal self.
Yellowish Flakes on Hair and Scalp
Yellow flakes on your hair and scalp are known as dandruff by most people, and are not usually taken very seriously. However, experts now agree that dandruff should be taken very seriously. Dandruff occurs due to an inflammatory process that attacks your scalp. The inflammatory condition, known as seborrheic dermatitis, is a chronic condition that often accompanies a fungal infection. Fungi can inflame your scalp severely, and can exacerbate your dandruff. If you do have dandruff, then you can see a dermatologist to get prescription shampoo and conditioner in order to help your scalp and fix the problem. Usually, with only a few weeks, you can correct the problem and your scalp can get back to normal.
People often fuss over their hair a lot. They constantly worry about its color, style and cut. No matter their age or gender, hair is an important part of their looks that does not go overlooked. What most people do not know though, is that your hair can actually tell you a lot about your health. Any change in texture, shine, or thickness can be indicative of a health condition that needs immediate attention. If you notice any of these changes in your hair, or any other changes, then talk with your doctor as soon as possible. Changes in your hair can be simply indicative of vitamin and mineral deficiencies or you could be dealing with a larger health issue that needs attention.
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