What is telogen effluvium?
It is the shift of part of the growing hair into an early resting phase after a trigger, followed by shedding together a few months later. The follicles are not damaged.
Shedding is diffuse and is noticed as a marked increase on the comb and in the shower. Complete baldness does not usually occur, but hair can look thin.
Because the follicles are not damaged, hair grows back.
What can trigger it?
Childbirth, febrile infections, surgery, severe stress, rapid weight loss or inadequate nutrition and some medicines can be triggers.
Because of the time lag between trigger and shedding, finding the cause can be hard. The doctor reviews your history along a timeline.
Sometimes several triggers coincide.
How long does it last, and does hair grow back?
Acute telogen effluvium usually eases within a few months and hair begins to regrow. Return to full density can take longer.
Because new hairs are short, recovery may not be noticeable at first. The timeframe varies from person to person.
If shedding lasts longer than six months, a chronic form or another cause is considered.
How is it diagnosed and managed?
Diagnosis rests on history and examination; tests such as iron and thyroid are requested if needed. The basis of management is removing the trigger and correcting any deficiency.
It is important to distinguish it from genetic loss, and the two can coexist. Unnecessarily aggressive procedures are avoided.
Methods such as PRP are discussed only in selected cases and are not needed in most acute cases.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if shedding lasts more than six months, there are patchy losses, scalp symptoms, or signs suggesting a health problem.
Rapid, widespread loss, weight loss or fatigue may call for a general assessment.
Proceeding with tests is safer than taking heavy supplements on your own.
Frequently asked questions
Is telogen effluvium lasting?
The acute form is usually temporary and hair regrows. In prolonged cases, a doctor’s assessment is needed.
When does postpartum shedding end?
It generally eases within a few months. It varies from person to person.
Is a hair transplant needed?
Generally not, because the follicles are not damaged.
How many shed hairs is too many?
There is no threshold that applies to everyone. A marked and ongoing increase is a reason to see a doctor.
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This content is for general information and does not replace a personal medical assessment.