Allergies have become an increasingly prevalent health concern in America, being the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the country. From itchy eyes and sneezing to skin rashes and hives, allergies can manifest in a wide range of symptoms, but can allergies cause hair loss? While they are not commonly associated with this condition, recent research has suggested that allergies may be a contributing factor. This is mainly because they can cause stress and interfere with the natural hair growth cycle, leading to hair loss.
In this article, we will explore the relationship between allergies and hair loss, including the types of allergic reactions that may contribute to it and how to manage and treat the condition.
What are the causes of hair loss?
There are many different causes of hair loss, which can vary depending on the individual. However, some of the most common ones include:
- Genetics: Hereditary hair loss, also known as androgenetic alopecia, is the most common cause of hair loss in both men and women.
- Hormonal imbalances: such as those that occur during pregnancy, menopause, or thyroid disorders.
- Medical conditions: such as scalp infections or autoimmune disorders:
- Alopecia areata: This disease develops when the body attacks its own hair follicles causing hair loss anywhere on the body.
- Seborrheic dermatitis: Also referred to as seborrhea, seborrheic psoriasis, seborrheic eczema, or, when it occurs in infants, cradle cap. It is considered a chronic form of eczema that causes scaly patches on the scalp (mainly), face, ears, chest, and other parts of the body. The exact cause of this skin condition is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to a combination of factors including an inflammatory reaction to excess Malassezia yeast (organism that can be found on the skin’s surface).
- Medications or chemotherapy.
- Stress: Emotional or physical stress can cause hair loss, as it can interrupt the natural hair growth cycle.
- Nutritional deficiencies: A lack of certain vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and biotin.
- Hairstyling practices: including certain hairstyles, like tight braids or ponytails, or different hair treatments.
What types of allergies contribute to hair loss?
It is important to note that not all types of allergies can contribute to hair loss. For example, food allergies are unlikely to be a triggering factor, as they don’t usually cause stress or skin irritation. Below are some of the most common allergies that can be the culprit of this condition.
Seasonal allergies
Seasonal allergies, also known as allergic rhinitis or hay fever, are caused by an immune system response to airborne allergens such as pollen, mold spores, and dust mites. These allergies can cause inflammation in the body, which can cause stress and lead to the premature resting of hair follicles. The symptoms of seasonal scalp allergies resemble typical allergy symptoms, such as sneezing, watery eyes, and itchiness. However, they are mostly related to inflammation and irritation, including flakiness, redness, slight soreness, and even hair loss in severe cases. Seasonal allergies can cause an itchy scalp, especially during the spring season when airborne allergens are prevalent. When the body encounters allergens, it produces histamine to combat them, which can lead to histamine overproduction and subsequent symptoms, such as itchy skin, rashes, and even on hidden skin like the scalp. Therefore, it is essential to manage symptoms effectively to reduce their impact on the scalp and other parts of the body.
Contact dermatitis
Contact dermatitis is a type of skin allergy that occurs when the skin comes into contact with an allergen. The allergen can be anything from hair dye to shampoo to certain metals. When the skin comes into contact with the allergen, it can become itchy, red, and inflamed. Repeated exposure to the allergen can cause damage to the hair follicles and the scratching and rubbing of the scalp that can occur with contact dermatitis can also contribute to hair loss.
Medication allergies
Some medications that are known to cause hair loss as a side effect include chemotherapy drugs, antidepressants, and blood thinners. Also, antihistamines can be a factor in excessive hair shedding by disrupting the natural hair growth cycle or causing stress in the body.
If you are experiencing hair loss and think that it may be related to allergies, it is important to speak with a board-certified allergy specialist. They can help determine the underlying cause of your condition and develop an appropriate treatment plan.
The takeaway
While allergies are not typically considered a direct cause of hair loss, they can contribute to it indirectly. Allergic reactions can cause stress, interfere with the natural hair growth cycle, and lead to skin irritation and inflammation, all of which can lead to hair loss or thinning. If you suffer from this condition or any allergy symptoms, make sure you speak with a healthcare provider to determine the underlying cause and obtain an appropriate treatment. Our team of allergy associates is here to offer you the help you need.
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