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Can Autoimmune Disease Cause Hair Loss?

Males and females can both be affected by hair loss which may be caused by a number of different factors. Hair loss or alopecia affects approximately 2% of the population and can be classified as alopecia areata (patches/areas of hair loss) or alopecia totalis (complete hair loss).

Alopecia can be very distressing for the individual and may have a heavy psychological impact. From a naturopathic perspective, alopecia is a condition that can be managed and treated. The aim is to determine the root cause of hair loss in order to holistically treat and prevent recurring hair loss in the future.


Causes of Hair Loss


Hair loss is a physical and external sign which may indicate that something else may be going on inside the body. Factors such as nutrient deficiencies, pharmaceutical drugs, hormonal imbalances or contraception, chronic stress, thyroid disorders and food intolerances all may contribute to an individuals hair loss.

Autoimmune diseases are conditions in which the immune system attacks part of its own body and may be a contributing factor to an individuals hair loss. Alopecia areata is classified as an autoimmune disease which causes an individual's hair to fall out. This frequently occurs in association with other autoimmune diseases such as thyroid disorders and skin conditions with an underlying autoimmune element.


Autoimmune Disease and Hair Loss


Alopecia Areata is caused by an autoimmune reaction in the body. The immune system becomes confused and mistakenly attacks its own system. It is a common symptom of autoimmune diseases, where the hair follicles are targeted, causing a person’s hair to fall out.

The body’s immune system signals white blood cells to attack healthy hair follicle cells (an autoimmune response) causing them to shrink and resulting in the hair to fall out. Alopecia areata has been considered as an autoimmune disease due to its abnormal T cell response against the hair follicle self-antigens. This can happen on the scalp or other parts of the body and range from small patches to complete loss. Alopecia may occur as a single episode or recur at intervals for years.

Hair loss can be an extremely emotionally challenging period for the individual and may often be accompanied by stress, low mood and anxiety. It’s important to seek support on your health journey if you feel like this.



The Naturopathic Approach to Autoimmune Hair Loss


In order to treat an individual the best place to start is to identify the underlying or root cause of the hair loss. This may be done with a thorough investigation, case taking and pathology tests to assess the underlying drivers. From here an individualised treatment plan will be created which may include specific herbs or nutrients as well dietary and lifestyle considerations to support the autoimmune disorder and hair health.

At Infinite Health Studio, our experienced practitioners use a holistic approach paired with evidence-based medicine to help support you on your health journey.


Book your FREE scoping session here today or phone

the clinic on 0474 744 445

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