Telogen Effluvium Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis and Treatment

Hair loss can be a challenging experience for anyone, whether you’re a man or a woman. Suppose you’ve noticed more hair shedding than usual. In that case, you might be dealing with Telogen Effluvium—a temporary but common condition triggered by stress, poor nutrition, or sudden lifestyle changes. The good news? This type of hair loss is reversible with the right care and attention. Let’s understand the causes, signs, and steps you can take to regain a fuller, healthier head of hair.

What is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is a temporary hair loss that occurs when a larger-than-normal percentage of hair follicles enter the resting (telogen) phase of the hair growth cycle. This leads to excessive hair shedding and thinning. Unlike permanent hair loss conditions such as male or female pattern baldness, telogen effluvium is usually reversible.

The Hair cycle consists of 3 phases:

1. Anagen or growth phase.
2. Catagen or transitional phase.
3. Telogen or resting phase.

Normally, 85-90% of hair follicles are in the growth phase (anagen), while 10-15% are in the telogen phase. In telogen effluvium, however, up to 30% of the hair enters the shedding phase, leading to noticeable hair loss. While the condition is most common in women, it can affect anyone.

Signs and Symptoms of Telogen Effluvium

The primary symptom of telogen effluvium is an increase in hair shedding. People may notice more hair than usual on their pillows, in their brushes, or on the drain after washing their hair. Other symptoms include:

• Thinning hair across the scalp, often most noticeable on the top of the head.
• Excessive hair falls when brushing or washing hair.
• Gradual thinning without the appearance of bald patches.

It’s important to note that telogen effluvium doesn’t cause total hair loss but can result in overall thinning that might appear more noticeable in certain lighting or when the hair is styled in certain ways.

Causes of Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium is typically triggered by disturbances in the hair growth cycle, and several factors can cause to this condition:

• Stress: Severe physical or emotional stress, including trauma, surgery, or loss, can disrupt the hair cycle. Hair shedding often begins 2-4 months after the triggering event.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients like protein, iron, and zinc can impair hair growth.
• Sudden Weight Loss: Rapid weight loss or restrictive diets may cause hair to enter the shedding phase prematurely.
• Hormonal Changes: Hormonal fluctuations due to pregnancy, childbirth, or menopause are common triggers for telogen effluvium.
• Medications: Certain drugs, such as beta-blockers, anticoagulants, and retinoids, can induce hair loss.
• Health Conditions: Conditions like autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, and infections can trigger telogen effluvium.
• Surgery or Illness: Major surgeries or prolonged illnesses can disrupt the normal hair cycle.
• Toxicity: Exposure to certain chemicals, including metals, can cause hair shedding.

Diagnosis of Telogen Effluvium

To diagnose telogen effluvium, doctors typically conduct a physical examination of the scalp and hair. They may also perform the following tests:

• Hair Pull Test: This test involves gently pulling on small sections of hair to assess shedding.
• Blood Tests: It can help determine if there are underlying conditions, such as anemia, thyroid disorders, or other conditions.
• Wash Test: This test involves counting the number of hairs lost during a washing session to determine the extent of shedding.

A dermatologist may also look for other signs of hair health, such as scalp condition or patterns of thinning, to rule out other types of hair loss, such as alopecia areata.

How to Treat Telogen Effluvium?

While there is no specific treatment for telogen effluvium, the condition is often reversible once the underlying cause is addressed. Here are some steps that may help:

1. Addressing the Trigger:

The first step in managing telogen effluvium is identifying and addressing the underlying cause. For example:

• Stress Management: Managing stress through relaxation techniques like meditation, therapy, or lifestyle changes can help reduce stress.
• Nutritional Support: Correcting nutritional deficiencies with a balanced diet or supplements.

2. Hair Care Practices:

Avoid harsh treatments, chemical hair dyes, and excessive heat styling, as they can exacerbate the shedding. Opt for gentle, nourishing hair care products.

3. Supplements:

For those with deficiencies, taking supplements (under medical supervision) may help improve hair health. Nutrients like biotin, iron, zinc, and vitamin D are known to support hair regrowth.

4. Medications:

While there are no medications specifically for telogen effluvium, treatments like minoxidil can be used to stimulate hair follicles and promote regrowth. This over-the-counter topical treatment can stimulate hair follicles and promote hair growth. While it’s not a cure for telogen effluvium, it can help speed up the recovery process.

One such product approved by thousands of people from the brand ForMen Minoxidil Tropical Solution USP 5% for better results use it consistently for at least six months for better visible results. This solution helps control hair fall and stimulate new hair growth, improving the overall appearance of thinning hair.

Regrowth and Prognosis

Most cases of telogen effluvium resolve within 3-6 months once the triggering factor is managed. Although shedding may slow down, it might take a little longer for the hair to fully regrow. In most cases, individuals will not lose more than 50% of their hair.

In some people, particularly those with chronic telogen effluvium, the shedding may persist for more than 6 months. This form of the condition requires more extensive management.

Telogen effluvium is a temporary condition causing increased hair shedding, often triggered by stress, hormonal changes, or poor nutrition. While distressing, it’s reversible, with hair regrowth typically starting within 3-6 months. Addressing the underlying cause and seeking professional advice for persistent shedding can restore hair health.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q) How can I tell if I have telogen effluvium?

A) Telogen effluvium causes noticeable hair shedding across the scalp, often starting 2-3 months after a stressful event or major change. There’s no scarring or inflammation on the scalp.

Q) What are the common triggers of telogen effluvium?

A) Triggers include prolonged stress, poor nutrition, sudden weight loss, hormonal changes (e.g., postpartum, menopause), certain medications, or health conditions like thyroid imbalances.

Q) How long does telogen effluvium last?

A) It usually resolves within 6 months as the hair cycle normalizes. Chronic cases may last longer, especially if the triggers persist.

Q) Can telogen effluvium be stopped or prevented?

A) While you can’t stop the condition immediately, managing triggers like stress and addressing nutritional deficiencies can speed up recovery and minimize further shedding.

Q) Will my hair grow back after telogen effluvium?

A) Yes, hair typically regrows within 3-6 months after the underlying cause is resolved. Most people regain full hair density over time.

Also Read the Articles:

• What are the Early Signs, Causes and Treatments for Balding?
• Hair Transplantation: Process, Complications and Side Effects
• What are the Different Stages of Male Pattern Baldness (Hair Loss) in Men?
• Does Masturbation Cause Dandruff & Hairfall? Can It Lead to Hair Loss?

*** This Article is Written by Swetha Ramala.