About Kimberly Belk Expertise As a registered nurse, I can help you understand the type of hair loss you suffer and the goals of your physician`s treatment plan. As someone who suffers alopecia, I can explain treatment options and coping with the disease. Part of coping with hair loss is finding ways to "look natural", and as the owner of Belk Wigs, I can recommend several different types of hair replacement options based on the specific needs you may have related to your particular type of hair loss.
in late June, my thick, very healthy hair began to shed suddenly. All of a sudden lots of long hairs that came out at the root were in my hairbrush and several would come out at a time in the shower. I thought it might have been the extreme heat we were having so I waited it out for two weeks but it continued. I cut my hair a few inches as it was thinner.
I went to the doctor and they checked my thyroid - and it's fine. The doc suggested my body might be stressed because of my high-stress job and my eating a lot of junk food. I also have heavy menstrual periods so iron deficiency is also being addressed with a multi-vitamin.
I've been taking zoloft for about 8 months. I started on 12 miligrams the first month and have been on 25 miligrams since then.
The month the excessive hair shedding began, I had forgotton to take the zoloft at the right time (had to switch the time of day a few times) and I think even forgot to take it a couple days completely. Could that have spurred the hair shedding? I discontinued usage when I realized that could have been the cause a few days ago. How long does it take to eliminate from your system?
I'm starting to freak out now because it's becoming hard to completely camoflauge in front.
I've always had thick, healthy hair. I just turned 30 but am fit and active.
How long will the hair follicles that shed take to reactivate? I can expect recovery, right? Is that most common for people to recover their hair when lost this way? I just can't imagine it not growing back. My hair was just full and thick two months ago...
Answer Hi,
Stress can cause extreme hair loss, and the condition is called Telogen effulvium. I do not know if Zoloft is known to cause hair loss, but your pharmacist should be able to help you with that question. I suggest you supplement your diet with a "hair skin and nail" vitamin preparation, try to find alternative ways to deal with your stress, and be sure you get 8 hours sleep a night. Balance your diet too, and stop eating junk food. Think about what every bite you put in your mouth will do for you...will it provide you with protein, vitamins, minerals, or is it full of sugar and fat?
I also suggest you go to Sally Beauty Supply Company and get the Nutri-Ox line of hair care products. I will help the hair you have become healthier.
