Health

7 Reasons Why You’re Experiencing Hair Loss — and How You Can Fix It

Published

6 years ago

June 26, 2018 3:06 pm

bodexng

When you think about going bald, you’re probably thinking about male pattern baldness, a permanent and basically irreversible form of hair loss. Male pattern baldness tends to start with a receding hairline and thinning on the crown, which usually becomes more pronounced over time.

But if you don’t have male pattern baldness, and you start to notice clumps of hair in your shower, it’s understandable why you might freak out. After all, who wants to lose their hair for good?

First of all, it’s important to note that seeing some strands in your drain or in your hairbrush is perfectly normal. “Most people shed 100 to 200 hairs per day,” says Anthony Rossi, M.D., a dermatologist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.
But even if you’re losing more than that, male-pattern baldness might not necessarily be at play. In fact, there could be some temporary causes of baldness you should know about. Here are seven (temporary) reasons why you might be losing your hair — and what you can do about it.

1 Your thyroid levels may be off.

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If something is wrong with your thyroid, hair loss is usually a pretty good indicator. Your thyroid helps to regulate hair quality and hair growth, says Robert Anolik, M.D., a cosmetic dermatologist in New York City. Hair loss can happen both with hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism (low and high thyroid activity).

If thyroid hormone issues are a factor, you might notice that you’re losing hair all over your head, instead of in one specific area. You may also be losing body hair as well.

Fortunately, “most screening involves checking these routine blood levels with a simple test,” says Dr. Anolik. If your results are abnormal, an endocrinologist and a dermatologist can help coordinate treatment to get the levels back to normal, which usually involves taking medication. Once your levels are back to normal, you should notice your hair growth getting back on track.

2 Extreme stress or illness.

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If you notice your hair coming out easily when you comb your hair, it may be triggered by a stressful event. In this case, you’ll tend to see hair loss all over your head, not just in one specific area.

“That’s a sign that the hair follicles have gone into ‘hibernation’. It indicates that the hair follicles have entered the telogenic, or resting, phase,” says Rajani Katta, M.D., professor of dermatology at Baylor College of Medicine. “Hair follicles cycle through different phases of growth, and in the resting phase, those hairs are very easily dislodged. They come out by the roots.”

Severe physical and emotional stress can trigger this state of hair follicle hibernation. While it’s still not totally clear why stress or illness triggers this phase, some researchers believe it has to do with the stress hormones that are released during stressful situations.

“The hair loss is usually seen about 3 to 6 months after the triggering event, and it can then take another 3 to 6 months for the condition to reverse. But the good news is that, for most people, it does reverse on its own,” says Dr. Katta.

3 You may have an infection.

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“When I see a circular patch of hair loss, the first condition I think of is a fungal infection,” says Katta.

The cause? Ringworm, aka athlete’s foot, is an infection you can get from direct contact with someone who has it, or by sharing things like towels or bedding with someone who has it. It’s pretty contagious. “They can cause redness and flaking, and sometimes even pus bumps, in a circular patch of hair loss,” she says.

If your ringworm test comes back positive, you’ll usually need an antifungal medication to cure your infection. When the infection is gone, your hair will start to grow back.

4 Inflammation of your scalp.

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Extreme cases of psoriasis — an inflammatory condition marked by red, scaly plaques on your skin — or seborrheic dermatitis, can also cause temporary hair loss, says Dr. Anolik.

If that’s the case, you’ll tend to notice your scalp is patched with red and covered with greasy-looking, white or yellowish scales and dandruff, and your hair loss will be general.

The condition “can be controlled with dandruff shampoos initially, but if it’s not resolving quickly, I’d recommend seeing a board-certified dermatologist for prescription care,” he says.

5 Taking certain medications or supplements.

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“Although there’s a lot of variability in how individuals react to medications, some possible triggering medications include steroids, antidepressants, and isotretinoin, a derivative of vitamin A that’s used to treat severe acne (like Accutane),” says Katta. Another common culprit is blood pressure medication —particularly, a beta blocker called propranolol — which can also lead to hair loss.

In these cases, discontinuing the medication, or switching to another kind, can restore hair growth, says Anolik. And while it sounds contradictory, you should also be wary of taking hair loss supplements.

“Many contain vitamin A, vitamin E, selenium, or even a combination of these. This can be a problem, depending on the doses, especially if you’re already getting more than enough of these nutrients in your diet,” says Dr. Katta. “That’s because excessive levels of these nutrients in your body can actually lead to more hair loss.”

6 You just switched to a vegan diet.

Just switched to a vegan diet? If you’re not getting enough iron, you might start to notice general thinning on your scalp, says Dr. Anolik. That may be because an iron deficiency puts your body into survival mode, which means it uses nutrients and oxygen that are normally used to replenish your hair. That’s why your doctor may recommend a simple blood test to check your iron levels. If they’re low, he or she may recommend an iron supplement or iron-heavy diet. After your levels are restored, your hair will grow back, but it may take a few months.

7 You may have an undiagnosed autoimmune disease.

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“Alopecia areata is a condition in which your immune system attacks your hair-producing cells,” says Joshua Zeichner, M.D., director of Cosmetic and Clinical Research at Mount Sinai Hospital’s Department of Dermatology. “This leads to individual, round patches of hair loss. In some cases it may be severe and affect the entire scalp, or even the eyebrows or beard.” You may also notice problems with your nails, such as pitting or white spots.

If you think you may have alopecia areata visit your dermatologist to discuss your options, which include cortisone injections, says Dr. Zeichner. Other autoimmune diseases such as lupus are also associated with thinning hair.

Overall, if you’re worried about your hair loss—or you’re concerned that it may be more permanent — make an appointment with a dermatologist. “These physicians are the ones trained in hair and hair diseases. They understand the various entities that can cause hair loss and how to diagnosis and treat them,” says Rossi.

Health

7 health benefits of eating seaweed

Published

2 days ago

April 25, 2024 9:58 am

BodexNG

Seaweed, also known as kelp, nori, or marine algae, comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours.

Each variety offers its distinct taste and texture. Seaweed is surprisingly versatile and can be enjoyed in a multitude of ways.

Here are 7 amazing reasons to consider adding a touch of the ocean to your plate:

1. Nutrition

Seaweed is a nutritional goldmine, brimming with essential vitamins and minerals that your body needs to thrive. It’s an excellent source of iodine, a vital mineral for healthy thyroid function. Just a small amount of seaweed can meet your daily recommended intake of iodine, helping to regulate your metabolism, energy levels, and brain function.

Seaweed is also a good source of vitamins A, C, E, and K, all essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and promoting cell growth and repair. Seaweed is also a natural source of magnesium, essential for regulating blood pressure and muscle function, as well as iron, which helps transport oxygen throughout your body.

It contains calcium, crucial for strong bones and teeth, and potassium, which helps maintain healthy blood pressure.

2. Gut health

The human gut is a complex ecosystem teeming with trillions of bacteria, both good and bad. A healthy balance of these microbes is crucial for health and digestion. Seaweed is a prebiotic, meaning it provides nourishment for the good bacteria in your gut. These friendly bacteria help with digestion, and nutrient absorption, and even play a role in immune function.

By feeding these good bacteria, seaweed helps to create a thriving gut environment that keeps you healthy. Studies have shown that a balanced gut microbiome can help reduce the risk of digestive issues like constipation and irritable bowel syndrome, as well as strengthen your immune system against harmful pathogens.

3. Weight management

If you’re looking for a natural way to manage your weight, seaweed might be your new best friend. Seaweed contains a type of fibre called alginate, which forms a gel-like substance in your stomach. This gel helps you feel fuller for longer, promoting satiety and reducing cravings. This, in turn, can lead to a decrease in overall calorie intake and support weight management efforts.

In addition to its fibre content, seaweed is naturally low in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free way to add variety and nutrients to your meals.

4. Heart health

Heart disease remains a leading cause of death worldwide. The good news is that seaweed might offer some protection for your heart. Seaweed contains healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to promote heart health by reducing inflammation, lowering bad cholesterol levels, and improving blood pressure.

Seaweed may also help to prevent blood clots, which can block arteries and lead to heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, its rich supply of antioxidants helps fight free radicals that can damage blood vessels and contribute to heart disease.

5. Blood sugar control

For people with diabetes, managing blood sugar levels is crucial. Seaweed might offer some unique benefits in this regard. Studies suggest that certain types of seaweed, like wakame and fucoidan, may help regulate blood sugar levels. These seaweeds may slow down the absorption of carbohydrates in the gut, preventing blood sugar spikes after meals.

Additionally, seaweed may improve insulin sensitivity, allowing your body to utilise insulin more effectively and keep blood sugar levels under control.

Health

Five benefits of drinking Okra water

Published

2 weeks ago

April 14, 2024 9:16 am

BodexNG

Of recent, the trend of drinking okra water has gained traction backed with compelling evidence of its numerous health benefits.

In this article, we dive into the world of okra water and uncover five amazing key benefits of incorporating okra water into your daily diet, thereby unlocking the nutritional power hidden within:

Improved digestive health
Okra water is rich in soluble fiber, which aids digestion by promoting regular bowel movement and preventing constipation. It contains a gel like substance called mucilage that soothes and coats the digestive tract, reducing inflammation and easing symptoms of gastrointestinal discomfort. regular consumption of okra water can contribute to a healthier digestive system .

Weight Loss Management

Okra is low in calories and contains high fiber content, which can help make one fuller for longer . The soluble fiber in okra water helps increase feelings of fullness reducing appetite as well as unnecessary cravings. By including okra water into a balanced diet, individuals can support their weight loss goal in a sustainable manner.

Blood Sugar regulation

If you are watching your blood sugar levels or have a loved one doing so, this benefit of okra water would be really helpful as it tends to have potential benefits for blood sugar regulation. Okra contains soluble fiber, which can slow down the absorption of sugar in the digestive system, helping to stabilize blood sugar levels . By incorporating okra water into your diet, you may experience more consistent blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of complications associated with diabetes.

Heart Health Promotion

Okra is rich in nutrients like fiber, antioxidants and vitamins that contribute to a healthy heart. The fiber content in okra can help lower cholesterol levels, while the antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and protect against heart disease. However, it’s important to remember that okra water alone is not a magic solution. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and overall healthy lifestyle are key for promoting heart health.

Skin and Hair Benefits

Okra water contains vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and biotin, which can indeed benefit both skin and hair health. Vitamin C acts as an antioxidant, helping to protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by free radicals, thereby promoting healthier skin. Biotin, also known as vitamin B7, supports the health of hair by promoting stronger, thicker strands. Incorporating okra water into your diet or using it in beauty treatments may provide a natural way to enhance the health and appearance of your skin and hair.

With this benefits of okra water stated, if you happen to be a naysayer to okra water, you should definitely think about its benefits.

Health

Symptoms, risk factors, treatment — what to know about throat cancer

Published

2 weeks ago

April 13, 2024 12:19 pm

BodexNG

On Thursday, Ogbonnaya Onu, a former minister of science and technology in the Muhammadu Buhari administration, died aged 72.

Reports suggest that Onu, who was the first civilian governor of Abia state, grappled with throat cancer before his demise.

If you came across the news, you may have wondered for a quick minute about throat cancer and maybe imagined how the symptoms would physically manifest. Perhaps you imagined a lesion or even a swollen neck.

What is throat cancer?

It refers to a type of cancer that develops in the throat, also known as the pharynx.

The human throat is a muscular tube that begins behind the nose and ends in the neck. The voice box sits below the throat and contains the vocal cords.

The two types of throat cancer are pharyngeal and laryngeal cancers, also known as cancer of the pharynx and the larynx.

What are the symptoms of throat cancer?

Symptoms of throat cancer include persistent cough, sore throat, a lump in the throat that does not heal, changes in voice, such as hoarseness or not speaking clearly, difficulty swallowing, ear pain, and sudden weight loss.

What causes throat cancer?

Throat cancer occurs when cells in the throat develop genetic mutations that cause them to grow uncontrollably. The continuous growth kills the normal cells. Then, the accumulating cells can form a tumour in the throat.

It is not clear what causes the mutation that leads to throat cancer. There are, however, factors that can increase the risk of throat cancer.

These risk factors include a family history of cancer, smoking and chewing tobacco, excessive alcohol intake, viral infections including human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus, and a diet lacking in fruits and vegetables.

How can one reduce the risk of having throat cancer?

While there are no scientifically proven ways to prevent throat cancer, there are ways to reduce its risk such as eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, drinking alcohol in moderation, avoiding smoking, and protecting oneself from HPV.

How is throat cancer diagnosed?

Throat cancer diagnosis involves a few steps. A physical examination will be performed in which a doctor will examine the mouth and throat.

The examination also involves a series of blood tests, while an endoscopy will be carried out.

An endoscopy is when a thin tube with a light on its end is inserted through the nose to look for abnormalities in the throat.

A chest x-ray and computerised tomography (CT) scan may also be carried out.

How is throat cancer treated?

Treatment of throat cancer will depend on the size of the tumour, whether it has spread all over the place, and the overall health of the patient.

The doctor will first need to find out what stage of cancer the individual has, that is, how far it has spread. This helps to determine the best treatment options.

Surgery may be recommended depending on the tumour size and chemotherapy may also be required.

Bodex F. Hungbo, SPMIIM is a multiple award-winning Nigerian Digital Media Practitioner, Digital Strategist, PR consultant, Brand and Event Expert, Tv Presenter, Tier-A Blogger/Influencer, and a top cobbler in Nigeria.

She has widespread experiences across different professions and skills, which includes experiences in; Marketing, Media, Broadcasting, Brand and Event Management, Administration and Management with prior stints at MTN, NAPIMS-NNPC, GLOBAL FLEET OIL AND GAS, LTV, Silverbird and a host of others