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1000+ verified doctorsHair loss after COVID - #2867
I am 53 now, since 2 years means 2022,After COVID survival, losing hair in a big way.how to stop? Suggest medication?
Doctors' responses
Post-COVID hair loss, particularly a condition called telogen effluvium (TE), is a common issue experienced after illnesses, stress, or significant physical changes. Hair enters the resting (telogen) phase prematurely, causing noticeable shedding. Here’s how you can address it effectively:
1. Lifestyle Adjustments: Balanced Diet: Ensure you’re eating foods rich in: Protein: Eggs, fish, chicken, lentils. Biotin: Nuts, seeds, sweet potatoes. Iron: Leafy greens, beans, red meat. Omega-3 fatty acids: Fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts. Zinc: Pumpkin seeds, spinach. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to maintain scalp health. Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing. 2. Scalp Care: Use mild, sulfate-free shampoos with ingredients like: Ketoconazole (for dandruff or scalp inflammation). Caffeine (promotes hair growth). Massage your scalp daily for 5-10 minutes to improve blood circulation. Avoid harsh treatments like excessive heat styling or chemical procedures. 3. Supplements for Hair Growth: You can consider taking supplements, but consult a doctor before starting them:
Biotin (Vitamin B7): Supports keratin production. Vitamin D: Low levels are linked to hair loss. Iron: Essential for oxygen delivery to hair follicles. Zinc and Selenium: Important for scalp and hair health. 4. Medications and Treatments: Minoxidil (5%): FDA-approved topical treatment for hair regrowth. Apply to the scalp daily. Results may take 3-6 months. Finasteride (oral): Helps with hormonal hair loss (more common in men). Requires a doctor’s prescription. PRP Therapy: Platelet-rich plasma injections stimulate hair follicles and improve regrowth. Hair Serums: Products containing peptides and growth factors (e.g., Redensyl, Anagain). 5. Post-COVID Care: COVID-related hair loss often resolves within 6-12 months as the body recovers. Ensure you’re addressing underlying deficiencies like iron, zinc, or Vitamin D through tests. 6. Consult a Dermatologist: Blood Tests: Check for deficiencies (iron, Vitamin D, thyroid issues). Diagnosis: Rule out conditions like androgenetic alopecia (age-related hair loss). Prescription Solutions: Depending on your condition, a dermatologist might recommend corticosteroids for inflammation or other tailored treatments. Hair loss recovery takes time and patience. Start with lifestyle improvements and simple topical solutions, and seek professional help if the problem persists. Let me know if you’d like more detailed advice!
Oh, hair loss post-COVID, that’s been a thing for quite a few folks lately. Your situation makes sense—especially considering the toll COVID can take on our system, it’s like a storm that messes up everything, doesn’t it?
In Ayurveda, what I see here is an imbalance that might be related to your Pitta dosha. It can get aggravated during times of stress, illness, or hormonal changes, leading to hair fall. Maybe your digestion (or agni) has taken a hit too, which might affect overall nourishment of the hair. The best approach is multifaceted. Here are a few thoughts:
1. Dietary Steps: Try incorporating some Pitta-pacifying foods into your diet—think sweet, cooling, and somewhat oily foods. Sattvic foods, like fresh fruits (especially grapes, melons) and vegetables (cucumbers, sweet potatoes), may help soothe Pitta. Avoid spicy and sour foods for now, as they tend to aggravate.
2. Herbal Remedies: Brahmi, Amla, and Bhringraj are pretty much heralded in Ayurveda for hair health. You could look into Bhringraj oil for a regular scalp massage. A homemade mixture with Amla powder and water as a paste applied to the scalp might add some shine and strength to your hair.
3. Routine Adjustments: Keep your stress levels in check, easier said than done, right? Maybe look into yoga or meditation, just a simple breathing routine might help.
4. Hair Care: Oiling your scalp regularly is important. There’s an idea of Nasya, where you put 1-2 drops of Anu tailam or a similar herbal oil in each nostril daily, said to strengthen hair and impurities away from the head region.
Let me just fit in a friendly reminder here, though: Conditions like sudden and ongoing hair loss can sometimes point to deeper issues, so it might be good to check in with a healthcare professional too. But hopefully, these Ayurvedic tips help bring some balance and peace to your hair world.
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