The human body is a complex system, and hormones play a vital role in regulating many of its processes. From metabolism and reproduction to mood and growth, hormones are responsible for a wide range of functions.
While hormones are crucial for our health, imbalances can lead to several problems. One area where hormones play a significant role is in hair growth and hair health. In fact, some hair loss problems are due to a hormonal imbalance.
Hair loss can be a frustrating and embarrassing experience for both men and women. While there are many potential causes of hair loss, a hormonal imbalance is one of the most common but is often not considered.
If you are experiencing hair loss and are wondering whether or not it is due to hormones, read on to learn more.
What is a Hormonal Imbalance?
A hormonal imbalance is described as the state in which there is more than usual or less than normal amounts of a particular hormone in the body. This can occur when the body produces too much of a hormone, when it doesn't produce enough of a hormone, or when it produces too much or too little of a hormone in relation to other hormones in the body.
Hormonal imbalances can cause a variety of symptoms, including weight gain, fatigue, moodiness, and infertility. Many of these symptoms are also common with other conditions, so it's important to work with a doctor to determine if a hormonal imbalance is the cause.
If you're experiencing any of the following symptoms, it's possible that you have a hormonal imbalance:
- fatigue
- anxiety
- headache
- weight gain
- hair loss
- dry skin
- changes in appetite
- joint pain
- menstrual changes
- hot flashes
- night sweats
Some of these symptoms could be indicators of other health issues, so it’s best to talk to a physician to get a correct diagnosis.
The Symptoms of Hormonal Hair Loss
Suffice to say that if you experience hair loss along with these other symptoms, it can be an indication of hormonal hair loss. But hair loss due to hormonal imbalance is quite different when compared to other forms of hair loss, such as alopecia areata, hair loss that is caused by an autoimmune disorder.
Gradual Thinning of Hair
Hormonal hair loss does not happen overnight. Instead, it is a gradual process of hair thinning, followed by a receding hairline, and then the appearance of bald spots.
In women, it is often seen first as a thinning out of the area where the hair parts, either at a center parting or at the side.
Then, there is a significant thinning of the hair, or there is less hair to hold in a bun or ponytail. Others may see more scalp than hair, from the forehead to the scalp.
Some people may feel it is a part of aging, but one indication that you are experiencing hormonal hair loss is your age. Younger people also go through hormonal hair loss due to anxiety and stress.
Abnormal Hormone Levels
Other symptoms of hormonal hair loss are the changes associated with abnormal hormone levels. Hormones can affect your mood, energy levels, appetite, weight, and more. They can also contribute to conditions such as infertility, osteoporosis, and heart disease. If you suspect that your hair loss is due to high or low hormone levels, it's best to get a test.
There are a few different ways to check your hormone levels. Your doctor can order a hormone level test or a blood test for you. Blood tests are the most accurate way to measure hormone levels, but they are also the most expensive and invasive.
A blood test measures the levels of hormones in the blood and can be used to diagnose various conditions, such as diabetes, thyroid problems, and growth disorders. The physician will check your estrogen, hormone, cortisol, and thyroid levels and see if they are abnormally high or low.
High estrogen and high testosterone could affect hair growth and production, and in women excessive testosterone is converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). It is a sex hormone that affects the hair follicles’ structures and weakens their growth.
High cortisol levels indicate that the body is experiencing stress and anxiety, and is triggering its fight or flight response. In this case, the cortisol helps the body to face the stress, but it also induces hair loss and weight gain.
Hormonal imbalances are often treated with hormone replacement therapy, which involves taking medication to adjust the levels of hormones in the body. In some cases, lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, can also help to correct a hormonal imbalance.
Get a Diagnosis for Your Hair Loss Baldness
Hormonal hair loss is a common condition but, in some cases, it can be a sign of a more serious underlying condition such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or adrenal gland disorders.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to see a doctor so they can diagnose the cause of your hair loss and recommend the best course of treatment.