Hair Fall: Common Causes, Thyroid Link, and Useful Tests#
Hair fall is common and often reversible, but persistent shedding can signal an underlying medical issue. Thyroid imbalance, nutritional deficiency, stress, recent illness, and scalp conditions are frequent contributors. Testing should be targeted to symptoms and history, not random.
Quick answer#
Mild short-term hair fall can happen after stress or illness, but ongoing or worsening hair loss needs evaluation. In adults with fatigue, cycle changes, or weight symptoms, thyroid causes should be ruled out early.
Start with the symptoms hub.
Emergency signs (red flags)#
Seek urgent review if hair fall occurs with:
- Rapid patchy hair loss with scalp inflammation
- High fever, severe weakness, or systemic illness
- Significant unexplained weight change or palpitations
Common causes (ranked)#
- Stress-related shedding (telogen effluvium)
- Thyroid dysfunction
- Iron or nutritional deficiency
- Scalp disorders
- Hormonal and medication-related causes
Related pages: hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, weight gain.
Suggested tests#
Based on history and exam, doctors may suggest:
- Thyroid profile
- CBC and iron-related studies where appropriate
- HbA1c in selected metabolic-risk contexts
Local access: thyroid test in Chennai.
What you can do now (safe, general)#
- Avoid harsh heat and traction styling
- Maintain protein-adequate diet
- Keep regular sleep and stress-reduction routine
- Avoid self-medication with hormone products
When to see a doctor#
Consult if:
- Hair fall continues beyond 6 to 8 weeks
- Hair density visibly reduces
- Symptoms like fatigue, weight change, menstrual changes, or palpitations are present
FAQs#
Is hair fall always due to thyroid disease?#
No. Thyroid dysfunction is one cause among several.
Should I start supplements without testing?#
No. Supplement choice should be guided by clinical and lab evaluation.
Can thyroid treatment improve hair fall?#
If thyroid imbalance is a driver, correction may help over time.
References#
- NHS - Hair Loss (NHS, 2025)
- NHS - Underactive Thyroid (NHS, 2025)
- NHS - Overactive Thyroid (NHS, 2025)
- American Thyroid Association (ATA, 2024)