Iron Deficiency and Hair Loss: How To Deal With It?
Did your recent lab results reveal that you have iron deficiency? Also, have you been noticing hair loss recently?
These two are, in fact, interconnected. So it’s safe to say that one of the most common symptoms of iron deficiency is hair loss.
This type of hair loss is not permanent. However, following the measures advised, it can be prevented and treated.
We have also mentioned how iron deficiency causes hair loss and some working ways to prevent it.
Have a look.
Relation Between Iron Deficiency and Hair Loss
Hair loss is caused due to multiple causes. Lack of nutrients is one of them.
Haemoglobin carries oxygen throughout the body for the repair and growth of the cells, including the cells responsible for stimulating hair growth. Decreased iron levels in the body lead to a decrease in haemoglobin production.
With the right supplements, iron deficiency and the associated hair loss can be reversed. Check with your doctor for the supplements.
Hair Loss Secondary to Iron Deficiency
Hair loss secondary to iron deficiency appears like traditional female and male pattern baldness. However, studies indicate that iron deficiency can also cause genetic female and male pattern baldness and play a role in hair loss.
If you have mild to moderate iron deficiency, you will notice an increase in hair loss. You may see bald patches if you have severe iron deficiency.
Treatment for Hair Loss and Iron Deficiency
Hair loss secondary to iron deficiency is not permanent. Therefore, it is important to understand the source of the problem and mend it.
If you suspect that your hair loss is due to iron deficiency, consider getting your iron levels checked.
As mentioned above, you can take iron supplements if your lab results reveal low iron levels. However, the side effects can lead to a change in your bowel movement.
Other treatment options that you can try for hair loss include:
Minoxidil (Rogaine)
It is one of the most popularly counter-treatment options used by people for hair loss. It is available in shampoo, foam, and topical solutions. People most commonly use shampoo.
It would be best if you rubbed it twice a day on your scalp. It will help in preventing hair loss and will promote hair growth.
Finasteride (Propecia)
It is a prescription pill that can be taken only by men. It helps in decreasing hair loss. It also helps in stimulating the regrowth of hair in males.
Surgery
If you have permanent hair loss, you should consider undergoing surgery. However, it will not promote regrowth of hair.
Undergoing hair transplantation surgery involves plugging the hair containing skin and implanting it in the bald area of the head.
Prevention of Hair Loss and Iron Deficiency
Here’s are few dos and don’ts to deal with iron deficiency and hair loss issue:
Eating a Healthy and Balanced Diet
You should include foods rich in iron like spinach, lean proteins, salmon, pork, and dry fruits in your diet. Then, on your next grocery round, look for labels with the phrase “iron-fortified” on your cereals.
Don’t Tie Your Hair Tightly
Wearing a tight headband can cause your hair to break, which leads to hair loss.
Protect Your Hair with Hats and Scarves
You should keep your hair covered when going out on a sunny or windy day, which will prevent hair damage.
Final Word
Hair loss is often due to iron deficiency, a trace mineral that plays many vital roles in the body. Hair has tiny blood vessels that require oxygen and nutrients to stay alive. Iron is the main mineral in haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying pigment in red blood cells.
The pigment combines with oxygen to provide nutrients to hair follicles. If you are deficient in iron, you can have thinning hair and scalp, among other symptoms.
This doesn’t mean your only solution is taking supplements; you could also incorporate more iron-rich foods stated above into your diet to avoid this problem.
Follow the tips mentioned in this article, and you’ll never have to say, “why my hair is falling!”.
Have something to say about these tips? Let us know in the comments!
