Telogen Effluvium and ways to manage it

Are you experiencing sudden, excessive hair shedding or thinning? If this is the case, you may be suffering from Telogen Effluvium. Telogen effluvium, though it might be unsettling, is usually controllable and reversible. In this blog, we'll delve into what Telogen Effluvium is, its common causes, and practical ways to manage and recover from it.

What is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen Effluvium is a form of hair loss that is common in those who have experienced significant stress or a rapid shock to the body. Telogen Effluvium, which causes more hair to shed than usual, occurs when a significant number of hair follicles enter the telogen phase earlier than they should. There are three stages of Telogen Effluvium:-

Anagen Stage:- This stage is considered to be the most active stage of the hair growth cycle. The cells divide rapidly which is present around the hair follicle. Once new hair is formed, it starts to push out the hair follicle and elongate the hair shaft as well.

Catagen Stage:- This is also known as the resting or transitional stage where the lower portion present around the hair follicle regresses and the hair stops growing. 5% of the hairs are at the catagen stage.

Telogen:- This is considered to be the resting stage of any growth cycle as at this moment the hair follicles are not active. The white bulb of keratin present around the hair root keeps the keratin stored until the hair follicle sheds. 5% of the hair is at the telogen phase.

Common Causes of Telogen Effluvium

Physical or Emotional Stress: One of the most frequent triggers is this. The telogen phase of the hair cycle can be induced by stressful situations including surgery, childbirth, the death of a loved one, or a significant change in one's lifestyle.

Illness or Fever: Telogen Effluvium can be caused by serious infections, especially those that cause high fevers and disturb the hair growth cycle.

Dietary Deficiencies: A lack of essential nutrients, particularly biotin, iron, and protein, can impact hair health and trigger excessive shedding.

Medications: Certain drugs, including certain beta-blockers, anticoagulants, and antidepressants, can result in hair loss as a side effect.

Hormonal Changes: Telogen effluvium may be brought on by hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid conditions.

Difference between Acute & Chronic Telogen Effluvium

Differences The same disorder that causes hair loss, telogen effluvium, manifests in two different ways: acutely and chronically. They differ primarily in terms of their duration and underlying causes. Here's a breakdown of the key differences:

• Acute Telogen Effluvium:

Duration: Acute Telogen Effluvium is a short-term condition characterized by sudden and intense hair shedding. It typically lasts for a relatively brief period, often a few months.

Onset: The onset of acute Telogen Effluvium is usually linked to a specific triggering event, such as a traumatic incident, a severe illness, childbirth, surgery, or rapid weight loss.

Hair Loss Severity: Hair loss in acute Telogen Effluvium can be quite noticeable, with significant shedding. However, it is generally temporary, and hair regrowth typically begins once the underlying cause is resolved or mitigated.

Recovery: Most individuals with acute Telogen Effluvium experience a full recovery. As the underlying trigger is addressed or the body recovers from the stressor, the hair follicles return to the anagen (growth) phase, and normal hair growth resumes.

• Chronic Telogen Effluvium:

Duration: Chronic Telogen Effluvium is a long-term or ongoing condition characterized by persistent and prolonged hair shedding. It can last for six months or more and may continue indefinitely if not properly managed.

Onset: Persistent telogen There might not always be a blatantly obvious triggering event for effluvium. It can develop gradually over time and become a recurring issue.

Hair Loss Severity: While hair shedding in chronic Telogen Effluvium may not be as intense as in the acute form, it can be more persistent and less responsive to treatment. The overall hair density may gradually decrease over time.

Recovery: Chronic Telogen Effluvium recovery might be difficult. Identifying and addressing the underlying causes (which may include chronic stress, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or medications) is essential. Even with appropriate management, complete recovery may not always be achieved, and long-term care may be necessary to maintain hair health.

How telogen effluvium affects the body?

Telogen Effluvium primarily affects your body by causing excessive hair shedding and changes in the hair growth cycle. While it's not a life-threatening condition, it can have both physical and emotional effects:

Excessive Hair Shedding: The most noticeable effect of Telogen Effluvium is the shedding of a larger-than-normal amount of hair. You can discover extra hair in your brush, on your pillow, or in the shower drain, which can be upsetting.

Thinning Hair: As a result of the increased shedding, you may notice that your hair appears thinner, particularly in areas where the hair has been affected by the condition.

Decreased Hair Volume: Over time, the cumulative effect of hair loss in Telogen Effluvium can lead to a noticeable reduction in hair volume, making it look less dense and full.

Psychological Impact: Telogen Effluvium can have emotional and psychological effects. Losing your hair can be unpleasant and affect your confidence and self-esteem.

Stress and Anxiety: Dealing with Telogen Effluvium and the changes in your appearance can lead to increased stress and anxiety, which, in turn, can exacerbate the condition.

Scalp Sensitivity: Some individuals with Telogen Effluvium report increased scalp sensitivity or discomfort during the shedding phase.

Secondary Effects: In cases where Telogen Effluvium is caused by an underlying medical condition or medication, the condition or treatment itself may have additional effects on the body.

How to treat telogen effluvium?

Nutrient-Rich Diet

A nutrient-rich diet plays a crucial role in promoting hair health and reducing conditions like Telogen Effluvium. Losing your hair can be unpleasant and affect your confidence and self-esteem.

1. Protein: Getting enough protein is essential for hair growth since keratin, which makes up the majority of hair, is a protein. Include sources of lean protein in your diet:

• Lean meats (chicken, turkey)
• Fish (salmon, tuna)
• Eggs
• Dairy products (Greek yogurt, low-fat milk)
• Legumes (lentils, chickpeas)
• Nuts and seeds (almonds, chia seeds)

2. Iron: Iron deficiency can contribute to hair loss, so ensure you're consuming iron-rich foods:

• Lean red meat
• Poultry
• Fish
• Leafy greens (spinach, kale)
• Lentils and beans
• Fortified cereals
• Pumpkin seeds

3. Biotin: Biotin, a B-vitamin, is essential for hair growth. Foods rich in biotin include:

• Eggs (especially the yolk)
• Nuts (almonds, peanuts)
• Seeds (sunflower seeds)
• Salmon
• Avocado

4. Vitamins and Minerals:

Vitamin A: encourages sebum production, which maintains the health of the scalp. Sweet potatoes, carrots, and spinach all contain it.

Vitamin C: aids in collagen production, which is essential for the structure of hair. Some of the best sources are citrus fruits, bell peppers, and strawberries.

Vitamin D: Hair loss has been linked to vitamin D deficiency. Get it from fortified dairy products, sunshine, and fatty fish (salmon, mackerel).

Zinc: helps prevent hair loss and maintain the health of the hair. Incorporate foods like lean meats, nuts, and whole grains.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Found in fatty fish (salmon, sardines), flaxseeds, and walnuts, omega-3s support scalp health and hair growth.

5. Antioxidants: Antioxidants combat oxidative stress, which can damage hair follicles. Eat foods rich in antioxidants like berries, almonds, and green tea as part of your diet.

Stress Reduction

Reducing stress is important for your general health as well as for keeping your hair healthy and dealing with problems like Telogen Effluvium. Chronic stress can exacerbate already-existing hair-related problems and cause hair loss. Here are some methods for reducing the stress that works:

Meditation and Mindfulness: Practises like meditation and mindfulness can help you feel less stressed, anxious, and anxious. Consider setting aside a brief window of time each day for meditation or deep breathing.

Yoga: In order to relieve tension and encourage relaxation, yoga blends physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. Consistent practice can enhance general mental and physical health.

Exercise: Endorphins, which are naturally uplifting chemicals, are released when you exercise. Regular exercise should be a part of your routine, whether it be jogging, swimming, dancing, or another enjoyable activity.

Deep Breathing: To reduce tension, try deep breathing techniques. Try taking four counts of breaths in, holding for seven counts, and then taking eight counts of breaths out. Several times, repeat.

Progressive Muscle Relaxation: This technique involves tensing and relaxing different muscle groups to decrease physical tension and promote relaxation.

Journaling: As a technique to process and let the tension out, write down your ideas and feelings. You can learn more about your stress sources and how to manage them by journaling.

Aromatherapy: It has been demonstrated that some smells, including lavender and chamomile, have relaxing properties. Consider using scented candles or essential oils to set a calming mood.

Scalp Massage

Improved Blood Circulation: The blood flow to the hair follicles is improved when the scalp is massaged. By supplying the follicles with vital nutrients and oxygen, this improved blood flow encourages hair growth and general hair health.

Stress Reduction: Stress is a common trigger for Telogen Effluvium. Scalp massage is a relaxing practice that can help reduce stress and tension, which, in turn, may help prevent further hair shedding. Lowering stress levels can be particularly beneficial in managing Telogen Effluvium.

Follicle Stimulation: Massage of the scalp can stimulate dormant hair follicles, causing them to transition from the resting (telogen) to the growing (anagen) phases. This can result in increased hair thickness and density over time.

Hair Serum

Hair serums containing active ingredients like Redensyl and Hairgenyl have gained popularity for their potential to promote hair growth and reduce hair loss, including conditions like Telogen Effluvium. These ingredients work by stimulating hair follicles and improving hair health. Here's how they may help reduce Telogen Effluvium:

Redensyl: Redensyl is known for its ability to activate hair follicle stem cells, encouraging the growth of new hair and slowing down hair loss. It targets the hair follicles' stem cells, promoting their differentiation into new hair cells, which can be especially useful in conditions like Telogen Effluvium, where a significant number of follicles have entered the resting (telogen) phase prematurely.

Hairgenyl: Hairgenyl works by increasing the proliferation of hair follicle cells and protecting them from premature cell death. This ingredient can help maintain healthy hair follicles and support hair growth.

Using a hair serum containing these ingredients may help reduce Telogen Effluvium in the following ways:

Stimulation of Hair Growth: Redensyl and Hairgenyl stimulate dormant hair follicles, promoting the growth of new hair and preventing further hair loss.

Strengthens Hair Follicles: By promoting healthier hair follicles, these ingredients can make the existing hair stronger and less prone to breakage.

Increased Hair Density: With regular use, these serums can help increase the overall density of your hair, making it appear fuller.

Improved Hair Health: Redensyl and Hairgenyl can contribute to the overall health of your hair, making it look shinier and more vibrant.Nutrient-Rich Diet

Take Aways

Telogen Effluvium, characterized by sudden and excessive hair shedding, can be a distressing experience. However, it's essential to remember that it's typically a controllable and reversible condition. We've explored what Telogen Effluvium is, its common causes, and practical ways to manage and recover from it.

Telogen Effluvium disrupts the normal hair growth cycle, primarily affecting the telogen (resting) phase, leading to increased hair loss. Understanding its triggers, which can range from physical and emotional stress to illness, dietary deficiencies, medications, and hormonal changes, is crucial in managing it effectively.

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