Diabetes lasts for a long time which causes hair fall.

 

Diabetes and its related health issues can harm various organs in the body, including the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. High blood sugar, nerve damage, and hormonal imbalances associated with diabetes are the main factors that contribute to hair loss.

The hair growth cycle consists of four phases which is growth , transition , resting , and shedding . In people with diabetes, the telogen phase, which is the resting phase, is significantly prolonged. This means that hair doesn't grow as much and sometimes falls out excessively.

Alopecia areata, a common condition that causes scalp and hair loss, is closely associated with both types of diabetes. People with type 1 diabetes have a higher risk of developing alopecia areata. This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy hair follicles, resulting in sudden hair loss and the formation of bald patches on the scalp.

Research has also shown that type 2 diabetes is linked to severe central scalp hair loss in African American women.

There are several other conditions related to diabetes that can contribute to hair loss:

Poor blood circulation: Diabetes can damage blood vessels throughout the body, including those that supply blood to the hair follicles. This can affect the delivery of oxygen and nutrients necessary for hair growth.

Hormonal imbalances: Diabetes can cause imbalances in hormone levels. Abnormal levels of thyroid hormones, for example, can contribute to hair loss. Thyroid problems are more common in people with diabetes and can affect hair growth.

Stress: Stress can lead to hair loss in people with diabetes. Hormones produced during periods of stress, such as cortisol, can affect hair growth and contribute to hair loss or thinning. Stress associated with diabetes can also trigger alopecia areata.

Nutrient deficiencies: People with diabetes may be more likely to follow restrictive diets, which can lead to nutrient deficiencies. Low levels of haemoglobin, a protein that carries oxygen in the blood, can result in insufficient oxygen and nutrient supply to the hair follicles, causing hair loss. Diabetic individuals are also at a higher risk of deficiencies in vitamins D and B12.

Is hair loss due to diabetes reversible? With proper management of diabetes and maintaining healthy blood sugar levels, hair fall can be reduced. Good monitoring of blood sugar, adopting a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and supplementing with necessary nutrients like multivitamins and omega fatty acids can support better hair growth. It's important to address underlying factors like poor blood circulation, hormonal imbalances, stress, and nutrient deficiencies to minimize hair loss caused by diabetes.

In summary, chronic diabetes can weaken hair follicles and lead to hair loss. By effectively managing diabetes and taking steps to improve overall health, including blood glucose control, individuals can reduce the impact of diabetes on hair health.