Hair loss

Question

I have an emotionally unstable personality disorder and bar1, at the moment I have been drinking lamotrigine 100 per day for about 2 months (first there was lamotrigine, then seizar, then lamictal, which I stopped at and which feels worse, but the recipe has already been bought out). I began to notice that my hair was falling out. Very strongly. If you hold your hand, then a whole bunch, and if you wash or comb your hair, then it's even scary to look at. Hair is everywhere: on the pillow after sleeping, on the floor, on clothes. About 4 weeks ago, I dyed my hair with ammonia-free dye, but the loss began a little later. Can this be related to taking lamictal? What should I replace in case of what? Although he keeps my condition well, I'm already tired of looking for pills that suit me. It is already a shame to come to the doctor with another story that drugs are not suitable for me. I drank depakin (my hair was climbing hard, but now it's even worse), carbamazepine, oxcarbamazepine, lithium, fevarin, quetiapine. Lamotrigine keeps the condition best, but it causes fears that I will go bald. Therefore, I am already in a panic ready to give up the reception. How can I help myself? I have low ferritin, less than 10. Can this have an effect? And if it can, then why didn't the hair fall out before the reception? Could there be an autumn fallout? What can I take to help myself? I will be glad of any advice. Thank you.

Dr. Harsha Joy · Accepted Answer

It's understandable to feel concerned about hair loss, especially when managing an emotionally unstable personality disorder and adjusting to various medications. From an Ayurvedic perspective, hair health is closely linked to overall bodily balance, and factors such as low ferritin levels can indeed contribute to hair loss. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body, and low levels can lead to weakness and hair thinning.
To support hair growth and overall well-being, consider incorporating iron-rich foods into your diet, such as leafy greens, lentils, beans, and whole grains. Along with dietary adjustments, Ayurvedic herbs like Brahmi and Amla (Indian gooseberry) can be beneficial. Amla is rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, promoting hair strength and growth, while Brahmi helps in calming the mind and may reduce the stress associated with hair loss.
Additionally, using a warm oil massage with coconut oil or Bhringraj oil on your scalp can enhance circulation and nourish hair follicles. It's essential to manage stress effectively, as it can exacerbate hair loss; consider practices like meditation, yoga, or gentle exercise to help stabilize your emotions. Before making any changes to your medication regimen, consult your healthcare provider, as they can guide you through managing both your mental health and the side effects you’re experiencing. Balancing your physical health with emotional support is key to addressing these concerns.

Dr Sujal Patil · Answer

Hello Kavya, multiple factors are contributing to your overall hair loss status. The anxiety & panic is adding to it. So firstly, calm down & understand that there are solutions to your health problem which will surely help you. Before suggesting anything please answer these questions for additional information 
1. How is your digestion overall and do you have loose stool or constipation?
2. How is your sleep?
3. Since how long are you anemic?
4. Do you have any scalp issue like dandruff or seborrhoea?

Dr. Ayush Varma · Answer

It sounds really tough dealing with all those meds and now the hair loss. Totally get why you're worried. Lamotrigine might be playing a part in this hair loss thing, for some people, but also other factors could be at play, like the low ferritin. Anything under 10 is pretty low, and that can really meant your body isn't getting the iron it needs which can affect hair.

First off, let's see if balancing your iron levels helps. Trying iron supplements could be worth it — ideally get them recommended by your doc to not overdo things. Maybe focus on iron-rich foods too, like spinach, lentils, and some nuts and seeds. Vitamin C helps absorb iron better, so eating foods like oranges or bell peppers with your meals might be good too.

Now, about Lamotrigine – stopping it suddenly isn't a great idea, especially if it’s been keeping your symptoms in check. Absolutely important to talk with your doctor about this to maybe adjust doses or explore alternatives.

Regarding hair care, simple changes can make a difference too. Being gentle with brushing and washing, avoiding extra heat styling, not using harsh chemicals – might help reduce the shedding a bit.

And yeah, seasonal hair loss is a thing for some folks in autumn, but it might be a little too coincidental here, considering everything else.

Lastly, for easing stress (because it can affect hair and health big time), some simple mindfulness or breathing exercises might just help ease things a bit.

I'd really recommend keeping working with your healthcare provider; they've got your full health picture and can give the most precise advice. If you're feeling like your current doc ain't listening, maybe seeking a second opinion could be a good move. Don't feel shame, it's your health we're talking. Stay steady, you got this!

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