How to effectively manage severe hair loss?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am a 32-year-old woman with two kids, the youngest being 1.5 years old. I am experiencing severe hair loss in the center of my scalp, where it is visible. I am still breastfeeding, and I noticed graying starting one to three months after giving birth, so I have been using hair dye to cover it. Is my hair loss related to postpartum issues? What medications can help? I have been taking Zincovit syrup for three days and have noticed some improvement. Will the hair in the center grow back?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I have reviewed your concern. It appears that in addition to telogen effluvium, which is a common postpartum hair loss condition, you may also have female pattern hair loss. Losing 75–100 hairs a day is normal, but hair loss is considered significant if it exceeds this amount. Generalized hair loss in women is often caused by stress, poor sleep, poor nutrition, and excessive blood loss due to menstruation. Stress alopecia is common when hair is worn too tightly, which causes tension at the root, leading to hair fall.

For treatment, focus on getting good sleep, eating a balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, and taking a multivitamin like Follihair (biotin, folic acid, zinc) or Xtraglo (biotin) for at least three months. Check your hemoglobin levels, and if low, start iron and folic acid supplements. It’s also important to rule out thyroid or diabetes issues. Since you have female pattern hair loss, I recommend using 2 percent Minoxidil 1Rogaine, generic: minoxidil) (1 ml twice daily) for a longer duration after consulting with your general practitioner.

Thank you.