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MENOPAUSE AND HAIR LOSS
Hair have long been considered a symbol of beauty however not all women are fortunate enough to have healthy hair. Hair loss in women is as common as hair loss in men and the most eminent contributors of it are birth control pills, strenuous life styles, unhealthy micro nutrient deficient diet and menopause. Genetics also play a major role in the appearance of hair loss and it can be reversed by controlling most of these factors.
Early recognition and control is essential because as the disease progresses further it becomes difficult to manage.
MENOPAUSE AND HAIR DAMAGE:
According to various studies conducted one-third of menopausal women report noticeable hair loss (called “alopecia”) or change in hair growth during the change of life.
PATHOGENESIS OF HAIR LOSS:
DECREASED THYROID FUNCTION:
The most common cause of hair loss is low thyroid function, which is common among menopausal women
HORMONAL CHANGES:
DECREASED PROGESTRONE:
Levels of progesterone fall when there is ovarian follicle failure, which refers to a lack of ovulation. When this happens, production of androstenedione increases, which has several male like characteristics. As a result, male pattern hair loss occurs.
INCREASED TESTOSTERONE:
Thinning hair or hair loss in women at this age is often due to a drop in estrogen in comparison to testosterone, which may not decrease at the same rate. The result is a net excess of testosterone, contributing to hair loss on the head and hair growth in unwanted areas.
Many women also complain of dry skin or changes in their skin during perimenopause or menopause. Dry skin can be attributed to a decrease in all the reproductive hormones and in collagen production. As the hormones diminish, there is decreased stimulation of oil glands in the skin, resulting in dry skin and wrinkles. Deficiencies in essential fatty acids and nutrients in the diet can be a major cause of skin conditions as well.