How can severe hair loss be managed while experiencing stress, financial strain and weight loss?
Patient: I am 45 years old and experiencing a dramatic change in my hair texture within the last 6 weeks. It has begun to fall out in handfuls, well over 300 hairs a day, has dulled in texture, feels chalky and I ve lost weight. I have been under increased stress due to job loss and financial strain, unable to afford healthcare and losing weight. Doctor: Hello and Welcome to ‘Ask A Doctor’ service. I have reviewed your query and here is my advice. Hairfall can occur due to a number of causes like Androgenic Aloepecia caused due to sensitivity of hair follicles to androgenic hormones and genetics while other causes can be  fungal infection,nutritional deficiency, stress, long standing illness, side effects of medicines..Also if there is weight loss then probably stress is a cause however you also need to get your thyroid and blood sugar levels checked..You should consult a Trichologist and get evaluated and he can advise you investigations like hormonal assy, blood tests, trichogram, done to rule out the exact cause of the problem and treat you accordingly..You can be advised to apply 5% Minoxidil lotion over the scalp..You can be advised to take Biotin and multivitamin supplements..You can also be advised to take Finesteride orally if there is androgenic aloepesia as it suppresses androgens..You should massage the scalp with warm coconut oil..You should take a nutritious diet and drink plenty of water..Also add more of proteins, nuts, green vegetables and fresh fruits in diet with milk and clarified butter  in diet and regular exercise to gain ideal weight.Hope I have answered your query. Let me know if I can assist you further. Regards, Dr. Honey Arora