QUESTION:

Hello Todd,

I came across your website and decided to write to you about a problem that has been plaguing me for about 6 to 8 months now. I do hope you can help guide me in the right direction.

I used to have very very thick black hair till 2 years ago. However, it was a problem I effectively ignored till 6 months ago. Now, I do not have bald patches anywhere, but there has been such thinning that I fear that I soon will be bald!! You can actually see my scalp from between my hairs now, which was out of question before. I lose about 70 strands everyday, and this has been the case for at least 6 months now.

I had hypothyroidism, but the condition has long been rectified by thyroxin, and my levels are normal now. I do not take any kind of external medication apart from thyroxin. No contraceptive pills either. All blood tests have been done, and I do not seem to suffer from anything serious.

I was told it could be telogen effluvium, but surely that cannot last this long?? I have no other apparent symptoms apart from hair loss, to give me a pointer in a definite direction. Please can you help me?

This condition has affected my sleep, and my life in general, making it difficult for me to even work at times.

I look forward to hearing from you, when you may find time.

Thank you

Yours faithfully

C.G.

ANSWER:

Dear C.G.,

Thank you for writing.  Keep in mind, I am not a Doctor and I only can respond with what I know.

70 hairs per day is actually a normal hair loss.  And, being able to see your scalp between your hairs is also normal.  But I think you are alarmed because you recognize increase thinning of your hair density.

Generally, Doctors are not too concerned about hair loss because they perceive it as being “non-life threatening,” but you and I realize what stress it can cause.

I would strongly suggest a face-to-face discussion with one of our hair loss experts. We would be able to do a free scalp analysis to better offer you the right solution. You can schedule a consultation online here and see our various locations here.

Thank you for the response and we hope to see you soon!

Todd VanScoy