Signs That Your Hair Fall Is Actually a Symptom of PCOD or Thyroid Issues
Reviewed by
PurpleGirl Editorial Team · Reviewed by experienced women writers & researchers
Riya had been struggling with excessive hair fall for months, and it wasn't just the number of strands she was losing that was worrying her - it was the overall health of her hair and scalp. As she delved deeper into the possible reasons, she discovered that her hair fall could be linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid issues, both of which are common among Indian women. PCOS, or PCOD as it's often referred to in India, affects approximately 1 in 10 women of childbearing age, while thyroid disorders affect about 1 in 5 women over the age of 35. If you're experiencing unusual hair fall, it's essential to understand the signs that it might be related to PCOS or thyroid issues, such as the pattern of hair loss, changes in hair texture, and the presence of other symptoms like weight gain, acne, or irregular periods. For instance, a woman from Mumbai might notice that her hair fall is more pronounced during the monsoon season, which could be due to the humidity and changes in hormone levels. Recognizing these signs can help you seek the right diagnosis and treatment, which may include lifestyle changes, medication, or natural remedies like Ayurvedic hair masks or supplements from Indian brands like Himalaya or Patanjali.
What You'll Need
- A hair fall journal
- A scalp massager
- A balanced diet rich in iron and omega-3 fatty acids
- A good-quality hair oil like coconut or olive oil
Understanding PCOS and Thyroid-Related Hair Fall
It's crucial to understand that hair fall related to PCOS or thyroid issues doesn't just happen overnight; it's often a gradual process. PCOS can cause hair fall due to hormonal imbalances, specifically the increase in androgens, which can lead to male-pattern baldness in women. Thyroid disorders, on the other hand, can cause hair fall due to the changes in hormone production, which can affect the growth cycle of hair. A lot of women in India experience hair fall due to these conditions, and it's essential to recognize the signs, such as thinning of hair, especially on the scalp, or an overall reduction in hair volume. For example, a woman from Delhi might notice that her hair is becoming thinner and more brittle, which could be a sign of thyroid-related hair fall. You might find it helpful to consult with your doctor and get a thorough check-up to determine the underlying cause of your hair fall. You can also take our PCOS quiz to understand your risk factors and symptoms better.
Identifying the Signs of PCOS-Related Hair Fall
If you're experiencing hair fall due to PCOS, you might notice some distinct signs, such as hair loss on the scalp, particularly on the crown or the temples, or an increase in body hair, especially on the face, chest, or back. You might also experience other symptoms like weight gain, acne, or irregular periods. PCOS can also cause changes in hair texture, making it dry, brittle, or prone to breakage. To manage these symptoms, you can try incorporating Indian foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts or flaxseeds, into your diet, or using Ayurvedic hair masks like amla or brahmi to nourish your hair. A balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle can go a long way in managing PCOS symptoms, including hair fall. For instance, you can try drinking amla juice or taking supplements from Indian brands like Dabur or Jiva Ayurveda to promote hair growth and reduce hair fall.
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Recognizing the Signs of Thyroid-Related Hair Fall
Thyroid-related hair fall can be more challenging to identify, as the symptoms can be subtle and may develop gradually. However, if you're experiencing hair fall due to a thyroid disorder, you might notice some distinct signs, such as diffuse hair thinning, especially on the scalp, or an overall reduction in hair volume. You might also experience other symptoms like weight changes, fatigue, or mood swings. It's essential to consult with your doctor if you're experiencing any of these symptoms, as thyroid disorders can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. You can also try incorporating Indian foods rich in iron, such as spinach or beetroot, into your diet, or using a scalp massager to stimulate blood flow and promote hair growth. For example, you can try using a scalp massager from an Indian brand like Vega or Philips to massage your scalp and reduce hair fall.
Managing Hair Fall Due to PCOS or Thyroid Issues
Managing hair fall due to PCOS or thyroid issues requires a multi-faceted approach, including lifestyle changes, medication, and natural remedies. You can try incorporating Indian foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as walnuts or flaxseeds, into your diet, or using Ayurvedic hair masks like amla or brahmi to nourish your hair. You can also try using a good-quality hair oil like coconut or olive oil to moisturize and protect your hair. It's also essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. For example, you can try practicing yoga or meditation to reduce stress and promote hair growth. You can also use our period calculator to track your menstrual cycle and identify any irregularities that may be related to PCOS or thyroid issues. Additionally, you can learn more about thyroid symptoms and how to manage them to reduce hair fall.
Seeking Professional Help for PCOS or Thyroid-Related Hair Fall
If you're experiencing hair fall due to PCOS or thyroid issues, it's essential to seek professional help from a doctor or a dermatologist. They can help you diagnose the underlying cause of your hair fall and recommend the best course of treatment. You might need to undergo some tests, such as a thyroid function test or a hormone level test, to determine the underlying cause of your hair fall. Your doctor may also recommend medication, such as thyroid hormone replacement therapy or anti-androgen medications, to manage your symptoms. It's essential to work closely with your doctor to manage your hair fall and prevent any further complications. You can also try consulting with an Ayurvedic doctor or a holistic health practitioner to explore natural remedies and lifestyle changes that can help manage your symptoms. For instance, you can try consulting with a doctor from an Indian hospital like Apollo or Fortis to get a comprehensive diagnosis and treatment plan.
Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle to Prevent Hair Fall
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial to preventing hair fall due to PCOS or thyroid issues. You can try incorporating Indian foods rich in iron, such as spinach or beetroot, into your diet, or using a good-quality hair oil like coconut or olive oil to moisturize and protect your hair. You can also try practicing yoga or meditation to reduce stress and promote hair growth. It's also essential to maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight can exacerbate PCOS symptoms, including hair fall. You can try using our body mass index (BMI) calculator to determine your ideal weight and work towards achieving it. Additionally, you can learn more about irregular periods and how to manage them to reduce hair fall. By maintaining a healthy lifestyle and seeking professional help when needed, you can effectively manage your hair fall and prevent any further complications.
"Keep a hair fall journal to track your hair loss patterns, including the number of strands you lose daily, and any other symptoms you're experiencing, to discuss with your doctor."
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common signs of PCOS-related hair fall in Indian women?
How can I manage thyroid-related hair fall using Ayurvedic remedies?
What are the best Indian foods to eat to prevent hair fall due to PCOS or thyroid issues?
Can I use hair oils like coconut or olive oil to manage PCOS-related hair fall?
How can I prevent hair fall due to thyroid issues during the monsoon season in India?
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