Were you aware that over 38 million Americans are currently suffering from Diabetes? That is a very large number. A number so big, in fact, that it’s hard to wrap your head around. For a variety of reasons, more and more people have Diabetes and are experiencing the side effects of it. 

Many people believe that there is a link between having diabetes and losing hair. In fact, for years people have thought that was common knowledge. But is there truth to that or is it simply a rumor or myth? The question remains, can diabetes cause hair loss?

Before we can get into that, let’s talk about diabetes and what it really is. Simply put, diabetes is a chronic medical condition characterized by elevated blood sugar levels. While diabetes usually just affects the body's ability to regulate blood sugar, it can also have a wide range of effects on various organs and systems throughout the human body. Hair loss is a concern for many individuals, and there is a complicated and deep relationship between diabetes and hair health. 

Let’s explore the possible connections between diabetes and hair loss and examine the common types of hair loss and the importance of people managing their diabetes for their overall health.

The Link Between Diabetes & Hair Loss

Diabetes can have many effects on the body, some of which are rather surprising and unexpected to people. The more you know about diabetes, the better you can handle and manage it. 

Hormonal Imbalances

Doctors agree that diabetes can result in hormonal imbalances in the body. Doctors also agree that elevated levels of specific hormones, such as insulin, may contribute to hair loss. 

Circulatory Issues

Diabetes can have negative effects on the circulatory system in the body, resulting in lacking and dangerously low blood flow throughout the entire system. 

Hair follicles need a robust blood supply for proper functioning and growth. Decreased circulation can affect the nutrition in hair follicles and potentially contribute to hair thinning and ultimately hair loss too.

Inflammation and Oxidative Stress

Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are also common features associated with diabetes. Both of these conditions will negatively impact human hair follicles as well as the skin's overall health and appearance. Inflammation is particularly noteworthy because it may alter the normal hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss.

Autoimmune Factors

Some forms of hair loss are considered autoimmune conditions where the immune system mistakenly goes after hair follicles as if they are external intruders to the body. While diabetes is not a direct cause of this type of hair loss, the weakened immune system associated with poorly controlled diabetes will surely contribute to those sorts of conditions.

Medication Side Effects

Diabetes is a condition that is treated with the regular use of medications. And some of the medications used to control and keep tabs on diabetes might have some side effects. In certain cases, some hair loss may be listed as a potential side effect of these medicines.

It's vital that you discuss any and all concerns about hair loss related to medicine with your doctor or medical team.

Types of Hair Loss Associated with Diabetes

There are in fact a couple of types of hair loss that are associated with those who suffer from diabetes. They are similar in many ways but also different and should be studied so patients can be aware of what they have. 

Androgenetic Alopecia

Also known as male or female pattern baldness, this condition is a common form of hair loss that is influenced by genetics and other hormonal factors. 

While diabetes is not a direct cause of this type of baldness, hormonal imbalances associated with diabetes may make it worse and could speed up the process.

Telogen Effluvium

This is a type of temporary hair loss that is characterized by an increased shedding of hair. It can be triggered by a number of various factors, including things like hormonal changes, stress, or illness. People with poorly controlled diabetes may experience episodes of this type of baldness.

Management and Prevention

So, what can you do if you have diabetes and don’t want to experience any form of hair loss or other problems that can arise from the condition? There are quite a few things you can keep in mind and attempt if you wish to keep the worst side effects of diabetes at bay.

Blood Sugar Control

Maintaining the right blood sugar levels is the first thing that doctors will recommend because it is paramount when it comes to managing diabetes and minimizing its potential impacts, including any type of hair loss. 

Healthy Lifestyle Practices

Embracing a healthy lifestyle can positively impact both diabetes and your overall well-being. This includes a number of things, such as a balanced diet, some regular exercise, sticking to stress management plans, and getting adequate sleep.

Regular Medical Check-ups

Regular medical check-ups can help detect and address potential issues early on. When it comes to hair loss issues, trained dermatologists will provide insights into the specific causes of hair loss and recommend appropriate treatments.

Medication Review

If people with diabetes notice changes in hair health, it's important that they consult with their doctors. 

With medical staff, they can review their medications and adjust treatment plans if necessary. However, any changes to medication should only be made under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Final Thoughts

While the condition of diabetes itself may not directly result in hair loss, the complications, and imbalances in the body that come with it will likely contribute to certain types of hair loss if left unchecked. The relationship between diabetes and hair health is complex and still being studied by professionals, who are finding new advances to battle diabetes and its impact on the body. 

The key to limiting the chance of hair loss in people with diabetes has to do with effective diabetes treatment, adopting a healthy lifestyle, and seeking professional guidance from doctors too. 

As with all troubling health conditions, an individualized approach, along with considering medical history, is essential for addressing problems and challenges related to hair loss that are tied to diabetes.

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