Poorly controlled diabetes can also trigger telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the resting phase, resulting in increased shedding, said an expert
High glucose levels, a hallmark of diabetes, can significantly
affect hair health, experts urge. Keep in mind that your lifestyle impacts your
hair quality too.
High glucose levels in diabetes can contribute to hair loss through various mechanisms. Dr Gaurav Jain, senior consultant, internal medicine, Dharamshila Narayana Suprspeciality Hospital mentioned that elevated blood sugar levels can lead to poor circulation, affecting blood flow to the hair follicles. “This diminished blood supply hinders the delivery of essential nutrients to the hair, impairing its growth and strength,” said Dr Jain.
One of the most noticeable impacts is alopecia areata, an autoimmune condition more common in those with Type 1 diabetes, leading to patchy hair loss, said Dr Anantharaman, consultant – endocrinology, Chinmaya Mission Hospital, Bengaluru.
Poorly controlled diabetes can also trigger telogen effluvium, where hair prematurely enters the resting phase, resulting in increased shedding. “The reduced blood flow due to damaged blood vessels in diabetes slows hair growth and leads to thinner hair,” stressed Dr Anantharaman.
Furthermore, diabetes can cause hormonal imbalances, including increased levels of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone linked to hair loss. Dr Jain said that DHT can shrink hair follicles, leading to a shorter lifespan for each hair strand and eventual thinning.
Moreover, people with diabetes might experience heightened susceptibility to fungal infections and conditions like seborrheic dermatitis, adversely affecting the scalp and hair. Inflammation is another factor; diabetes often involves chronic inflammation, which may negatively impact hair follicles. “This inflammatory environment can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle, pushing more follicles into the shedding phase,” said Dr Jain.
In summary, the intricate interplay of impaired circulation, hormonal imbalances, inflammation, and complications associated with diabetes can collectively contribute to hair loss. “Managing blood sugar levels, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking medical advice are crucial steps in mitigating this potential complication,” Dr Jain said.
According to Dr Anantharaman, to mitigate these issues, maintaining optimal blood sugar control is crucial. “However, since hair loss can stem from various factors, a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare provider is advisable for personalized advice and treatment,” said Dr Anantharaman.
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