Effluvium refers to excessive hair loss that exceeds the normal rate. This condition can have various causes and manifest in different forms, affecting both the scalp and other hairy areas of the body. Effluvium is essentially a symptom rather than a disease in itself, and it can be classified as acute or chronic depending on the duration and severity of the hair loss.
Types of effluvium
- Telogen effluvium : One of the most common forms of hair loss, in which a large number of hairs prematurely enter the resting phase ( telogen phase ) of the hair cycle and then fall out. Causes can include stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, or certain medications. This condition is often temporary and reversible.
- Anagen effluvium : In this condition, hair falls out during the growth phase ( anagen phase ), often as a result of exposure to toxic substances, such as those used in chemotherapy. This hair loss occurs rapidly and can lead to significant hair thinning.
- Chronic telogen effluvium : This form of hair loss is characterized by a prolonged period of hair loss lasting longer than six months. It is particularly common in middle-aged women and is often more difficult to treat.
causes
The causes of effluvium can be varied and include:
- Physiological or emotional stress : Severe stress events can lead to temporary hair loss.
- Hormonal changes : Pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders can cause hair loss.
- Medications and therapies : Certain medications, including chemotherapy drugs, can cause hair loss.
- Nutritional deficiencies : A lack of important nutrients such as iron , protein, zinc and certain vitamins can cause effluvium.
- Diseases : Certain diseases and infections can have hair loss as a symptom.
Diagnosis and treatment
Diagnosing hair loss requires a thorough medical history and examination by a dermatologist or trichologist. Blood tests may be performed to identify underlying causes such as hormonal imbalances or nutritional deficiencies.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the effluvium and may include the following:
- Addressing the root cause : Correcting nutritional deficiencies, adjusting or changing medications, treating diseases.
- Drug therapy : Use of topical treatments such as minoxidil or oral medications in certain cases.
- Supportive care : A healthy diet and gentle hair care techniques can help improve the condition.
Hair loss is often reversible once the underlying cause is addressed. However, in some cases, particularly chronic forms, hair loss can persist and require a long-term management strategy.
Similar terms
