What Can Your Hair Reveal About Your Health?

Your health can be reflected by your hair. Your body talks to you every time you lose hair or have those ugly flakes showing up uninvited. You may need to take extra time and take care of your health. After all, your hair is an extension from your body. The question is: how much do you know about what your hair is trying to tell you?

Dandruff

Special shampoos can treat dandruff easily, but those thick patches may be psoriasis. This skin disease makes the cell turnover process speed up within days, not weeks. Normal cell growth replaces the skin that has flaked off, but psoriasis will result in dry, itchy, and red skin.

You may also have seborrheic dermatitis if the flakes are yellow and greasy. This inflammatory skin condition is created where there is an accumulation of many oil glands. Treatments can be successful with anti-dandruff shampoos, but some cases may require an anti-fungus medication or a steroid prescription.

Dry, Fine, and Limp Hair

Limp and fine hair can have many causes, but chlorinated water from swimming may be the culprit. If your hair is dyed, you may have sustained damage. However, limp and dry hair may be a sign of hypothyroidism which is a slowing of your metabolism where the thyroid gland produces fewer hormones. It may be beneficial to have thyroid tests taken if you have noticed weight gain or have been staying cold majority of the time. Hormone medications also can be prescribed.

Hair Loss

It is normal for you to lose 250 hairs daily, but if you lose more it could be because you are going through a stressful time. If you believe it may be your medications, consult a physician before you stop taking them. If your body sustains a shock, such as thyroid problems, surgery, or other events, your hair can go into a telogen (resting) state. In about two months, you may experience telogen effluvium (hair falling out).

Diet

Your body must have plenty of proteins since your hair contains keratin (found in proteins). A lack of protein may cause your hair to become weakened. Try changing your diet and seeing if the quality of your hair improves

You need to wash your hair often, but not daily. Every 2 or 3 days is a good pattern if you are experiencing or wish to avoid hair loss. Scalp problems can develop if it is washed too often. Getting your haircut to snip off dead and split ends may also improve the health of your hair. Talk to a medical care provider, such as Hightstown Medical Associates, to address any concerns. 


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