While thinning hair can result from factors unrelated to Crohn’s, like ageing, genetics, and hormonal changes, the disease can set the stage for hair loss. According to the National Library of Medicine, telogen effluvium – a form of temporary hair loss – has been identified as a potential complication of Crohn’s disease.
What Is Crohn’s Disease?
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in knowledge about Crohn’s disease – a type of chronic inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The disease causes inflammation throughout different parts of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Inflammation can extend deep into affected bowel wall layers, causing symptoms including fatigue, persistent diarrhoea, rectal bleeding, abdominal pain, unintended weight loss, anaemia, joint pain, and, in some cases, hair loss.
A key issue with Crohn’s disease is the inability to absorb certain nutrients and minerals as efficiently as a healthy individual. Because critical nutrients (including iron, riboflavin, vitamin C, and vitamin D) are necessary for hair formation at the follicle, any deficiency may result in hair loss. The chronic nature of Crohn’s Disease can also lead to significant stress and anxiety, which contribute to hair loss.
Medications used to manage Crohn’s, such as immunosuppressants, can also have side effects that impact hair follicles, leading to thinning hair. The good news is that medication-related hair is often temporary – hair will usually grow back once treatment has ended.
There are several ways to manage hair loss associated with Crohn’s disease.
Dietary Changes
Your diet has a significant impact on hair health. Foods rich in biotin, zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids are exceptional for hair growth. Consider including extra leafy greens, nuts, seeds, salmon, and eggs in your diet. If maintaining proper nutrient levels through food alone proves difficult, supplementing with a high-quality multivitamin may help fill the gaps. A dietician specialising in Crohn’s disease can make personalised recommendations to improve your overall diet.
Medication Review
Certain drugs used to treat Crohn’s disease might cause hair loss as a side effect. If you observe substantial thinning, consult your healthcare physician. They may change your prescription regimen, either by changing the drug, increasing the dosage, or adding a supplement to combat the negative effects. Never change or discontinue medicine without consulting a doctor; good Crohn’s disease management is critical to your overall health.
Stress Management
Finding healthy ways to deal with stress, such as relaxation techniques, mindfulness, or therapy, can improve overall health and hair growth.
- Gentle Hair Care
- Use a gentle, sulfate-free shampoo and conditioner that won’t strip your hair of natural oils.
- Avoid chemical dyes, perms, and heat styling tools, since these can exacerbate already brittle hair.
- After washing, leave your hair to dry naturally.
- Use a wide-tooth comb to detangle, and avoid tight hairstyles that pull on the scalp and can break the hair.
Topical Treatments
Several over-the-counter topical therapies encourage hair growth. Minoxidil is one of the FDA-approved treatments for hair loss. When applied directly to the scalp, it stimulates hair follicles and gradually increases hair density. However, before beginning any topical treatment, you should check with a dermatologist or healthcare expert to ensure it is appropriate for your needs.
See a Specialist
If hair loss is seriously affecting your quality of life, consult a trichologist (hair specialist). They can provide treatment options such as laser treatments and even hair restoration surgery in severe situations.
Scalp Massage and Stimulation
Regular scalp massages can improve blood circulation to the hair follicles, resulting in more hair growth. Massage your scalp lightly in circular motions with your fingers for a few minutes daily.
Be Patient
Hair regrowth is a lengthy process that can take several months to show substantial results. During this time, it is essential to stay positive and patient. Celebrate little wins, such as reduced hair shedding or new hair growth.
While hair loss from Crohn’s disease can be upsetting, there are steps you can take to support hair regrowth. Each approach plays a vital role, from making dietary adjustments and reviewing your medications to managing stress and using the right hair products.
