As you and the women in your life enter menopause – typically between 45 and 55 years of age – hormonal changes are prevalent. Your levels of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone drop. This leads to far more than just the cessation of your periods.
While the menopausal experiences of each woman vary, some symptoms are very common. These include hot flashes, night sweats, and insomnia – no surprise there, trying to sleep while you’re hot and sweaty is a challenge.
Some other issues you may be suffering from are anxiety, weight gain, memory and concentration problems, depression, thinning hair and hair loss. That last one is somewhat ironic, considering that another common side effect of menopause is the increased growth of body hair, everywhere but on your head. But hormonal changes aren’t the sole cause of hair loss during menopause.
Other Contributing Factors
Hormonal deficits and imbalances during menopause play a big role in hair loss. Estrogen and progesterone are important in the stimulation of hair growth. As their levels decrease, so does hair growth. Plus, you shed more hair and it appears noticeably thinner.
However, other factors may also be at play – from age and genetics to diet and stress:
High stress levels
Insufficient hydration
Genetics
Poor exercise habits
Insomnia
Nutritional deficits
Medication
Age-related illness
These factors aren’t sole causes on their own but may work together or with other environmental issues, leading to thinning tresses and hair loss.
Minimizing Hair Loss in Menopause
You can address some of the causes that contribute to hair loss and help minimize their impact. The following tips may be helpful in this effort:
Stress reduction techniques – Adopt some stress-busting methods to lower your levels. This can be meditation, exercise, a hobby, music or whatever works best for you.
Healthy diet – Have a check-up to identify any nutritional problems. A nutritionist can design a diet to address any dietary deficiencies you and your doctor discover.
Hydration – Be sure you’re drinking enough water. Keep a measurable water bottle handy to track and increase your consumption.
Careful hair care – Treat yourself and your hair with TLC. Minimize the use of heat and harsh chemicals. Brush gently and use natural protectants when advised.
Medication awareness – Talk to your physician about your medications to determine whether hair loss is a potential side effect. Discuss alternatives and weigh the pros and cons of switching.
Other Solutions
Healthy practices and habits can help minimize some of the more egregious symptoms of menopause. For some women, they can also halt or significantly delay age-related hair loss. But, if you’re still troubled by this issue, our sensitive team of professionals at Custom Hair Tampa Bay can help. Learn more about our proven hair loss solutions for women like you. To speak with one of our experts to discuss how we can help click here.
Photo Credit: silviarita Via Pixabay
Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause
https://www.webmd.com/balance/stress-management/stress-management