Hair loss is frightening and emotional, and it may become even more overwhelming when you recover from the physical and mental stress that accompanies COVID-19.Studies have shown that there are also a large number of reports of hair loss in long-term symptoms such as fatigue, coughing and muscle aches.We discussed this stress-related hair loss with professionals and what measures you can take to promote growth after recovery.
“The hair loss associated with COVID-19 usually starts after recovery, usually six to eight weeks after the patient tests positive. It can be widespread and severe, and it is known that people lose up to 30-40% of their hair,” Said Dr. Pankaj Chaturvedi, a dermatologist and hair transplant surgeon at MedLinks in Delhi.
Dr. Veenu Jindal, a consultant dermatologist at the Max Multi Specialty Center in New Delhi, explained that although this may be considered hair loss, it is actually hair loss.There is currently no evidence that the coronavirus itself causes it.On the contrary, researchers and doctors say that the physical and emotional stress that COVID-19 brings to the body can cause telogen hair loss.The life cycle of hair is divided into three stages.”At any time, as many as 90% of the follicles are in the growth phase, 5% are in the quiescent phase, and as many as 10% are shedding,” said Dr. Jindal.However, when the system is impacted, such as emotional distress or high fever, the body enters a fighting or flight mode.In the lock phase, it only focuses on basic functions.Since hair growth is not necessary, it will transfer the hair follicles to the resting or resting phase of the growth cycle, leading to hair loss.
All the pressure is of no avail.”Due to high inflammation, cortisol levels in COVID-19 patients increase, which indirectly increases dihydrotestosterone levels (DHT) and causes the hair to enter the resting phase,” said Dr. Chaturvedi.
People usually lose up to 100 hairs a day, but if you have telogen hair loss, this number looks more like 300-400 hairs.Most people will see significant hair loss two to three months after getting sick.”When you shower or comb your hair, a few hairs fall out. Because of the way the hair grows, this is usually a delayed process. This kind of hair loss can last six to nine months before it stops,” said Dr. Jindal.
It should be noted that this hair loss is temporary.Once the stressor (in this case, COVID-19) is relieved, the hair growth cycle will begin to return to normal.”You just need to give it time. As your hair grows back, you will notice short hair that is the same length as your hairline. Most people see their hair returning to normal volume within six to nine months. ,” said Dr. Jindal.
However, when your hair falls out, please be gentler than usual to limit external pressure.”Use the lowest heat setting on your hair dryer. Don’t tie your hair tightly into a bun, ponytail, or braid. Limit the use of curling irons, flat irons, and hot combs,” Dr. Jindal suggested.Dr. Bhatia recommends sleeping all night, eating more protein, and switching to a milder, sulfate-free shampoo.He recommends adding minoxidil to your hair care routine, which can prevent DHT-related hair loss.
However, if some people have lingering symptoms or any underlying disease, they may continue to lose a lot of hair and need to be evaluated by a dermatologist, Dr. Chaturvedi said.”These patients may need to try local solutions or advanced therapies, such as platelet-rich therapy or mesotherapy,” he said.
What is definitely bad for hair loss?More pressure.Jindal confirmed that emphasizing your widening or the strands on your pillow will only speed up cortisol (hence, DHT levels) and prolong the process.
Post time: Dec-27-2021