Telogen effluvium is a common condition that affects the hair growth cycle and causes hair loss. This type of hair loss can be sudden and severe, causing many people to feel self-conscious and seek treatment. In this blog post, we will explore what telogen effluvium is, the causes of this condition, how it is diagnosed and treated, and much more.

What is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is a hair loss condition that occurs when the hair growth cycle is disrupted. The hair growth cycle consists of three stages: anagen, catagen, and telogen. The anagen stage is the growth stage, while the telogen stage is the resting stage. In telogen effluvium, the hair is forced into the resting stage, causing a large number of hairs to fall out at once. This can result in noticeable hair loss and a thinner appearance.

What is the Cause of Telogen Effluvium?

There are many different factors that can cause telogen effluvium. Some of the most common causes include stress, hormonal changes, pregnancy, rapid weight loss, and certain medications. Other factors, such as an autoimmune disease, a thyroid disorder, or a fungal infection, can also contribute to telogen effluvium. It is important to identify the underlying cause of the condition in order to determine the best course of treatment.

There are several factors that can disrupt the normal hair growth cycle and cause telogen effluvium hair loss. These include:

1. Drugs: Several drugs, such as oral contraceptive pills, anticonvulsants, and anticoagulants, can cause telogen effluvium hair loss, which usually starts 12 weeks after starting the medication.
2. Physiological Stress: Surgical trauma, high fever, chronic illness, and childbirth can also lead to telogen effluvium hair loss.
3. Emotional Stress: The relationship between emotional stress and hair loss is mysterious, as hair loss itself can cause emotional stress.
4. Medical Conditions: Hyper- or hypothyroidism, autoimmune diseases, and various chronic systemic disorders can lead to telogen effluvium hair loss.
5. Dietary Triggers: Protein, fatty acid, and zinc deficiency, caloric restriction, and vitamin D deficiency can also cause telogen effluvium hair loss.
6. Ultraviolet Light: Some research suggests that exposure to sunlight and UV light may lead to an increased frequency of telogen effluvium hair loss, though this has not been scientifically proven.

There are five potential mechanisms responsible for hair loss in telogen effluvium:

1. Immediate Anagen Release: This happens when an underlying factor causes hair follicles to exit the anagen stage and prematurely enter the telogen stage.
2. Delayed Anagen Release: A prolonged anagen stage results in substantial telogen hair loss.
3. Short Anagen Syndrome: This occurs due to the unexplained shortening of the anagen stage, leading to persistent telogen effluvium.
4. Immediate Telogen Release: Shortening of the telogen stage leads to a significant release of “club hair.”
5. Delayed telogen release:: Prolongation of the telogen stage and a delayed transition to the anagen stage causes this.

How is Telogen Effluvium Diagnosed? What are the Symptoms?

Telogen effluvium is typically diagnosed through a physical examination and a medical history. During the physical examination, the doctor will examine the scalp and the hair, looking for signs of hair loss, thinning, or breakage. In some cases, a scalp biopsy may be necessary to diagnose telogen effluvium. The symptoms of telogen effluvium include sudden hair loss, thinning, and a decrease in the thickness and volume of the hair.

There are five different types of telogen effluvium, each with its own unique set of causes and symptoms. These types include:

Chronic Telogen Effluvium: This type of telogen effluvium occurs over an extended period of time and is usually caused by a chronic underlying condition, such as an autoimmune disease or a thyroid disorder.

Acute Telogen Effluvium: This type of telogen effluvium occurs suddenly and is usually caused by a traumatic event, such as a major illness or surgery.

Anagen Effluvium: This type of telogen effluvium occurs when the hair growth cycle is disrupted during the anagen stage. It is often caused by chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

Drug-Induced Telogen Effluvium: This type of telogen effluvium is caused by certain medications, such as blood thinners, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications.

Telogen Effluvium due to Alopecia Areata: This type of telogen effluvium is caused by an autoimmune disease called alopecia areata.

Chronic vs Acute Telogen Effluvium

Chronic telogen effluvium is a long-term condition that occurs over an extended period of time. It is often caused by a chronic underlying condition, such as an autoimmune disease or a thyroid disorder. Acute telogen effluvium, on the other hand, occurs suddenly and is usually triggered by a traumatic event, such as a major illness or surgery.

What are the Clinical Features of Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is a type of hair loss that occurs due to a disruption in the normal hair cycle. The clinical features of telogen effluvium can vary, but some common signs and symptoms include:

1. Hair thinning: One of the most noticeable clinical features of telogen effluvium is a gradual thinning of the hair, which may be more pronounced on the top of the scalp.

2. Increased hair shedding: People with telogen effluvium often experience an increase in hair shedding, which may be more noticeable when brushing or washing their hair.

3. Parting line widening: The widening of the parting line can be a sign of telogen effluvium, as the hair at the front of the scalp is often the first to be affected.

4. Fewer new hair growths: People with telogen effluvium may notice that there are fewer new hairs growing, which can lead to a reduction in hair density.

5. Alopecia: In severe cases of telogen effluvium, people may develop alopecia, which is characterized by patches of hair loss on the scalp.

6. Distorted hair: People with telogen effluvium may notice that their hair appears to be distorted or broken, as the hair shaft may be weakened due to the increased shedding.

How is Telogen Effluvium Treated?

Telogen effluvium is a common hair loss condition that can cause significant distress to those affected by it. The good news is that it is often a temporary condition and with the right treatment, the hair will regrow. The key to successful treatment is to first identify and address the underlying cause of the condition. In some cases, this may involve stopping or switching medications that are contributing to the hair loss.

Once the underlying cause has been addressed, there are several treatments that can help promote hair regrowth. 

Diet

The most commonly recommended treatment for telogen effluvium is a healthy diet that is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, and biotin. Eating a balanced diet can help to provide the body with the nutrients it needs to support healthy hair growth. Additionally, supplements may be recommended to help restore the hair’s health and promote regrowth.

Topical medications

Another effective treatment option for telogen effluvium is topical medications, such as minoxidil, that are applied directly to the scalp. Minoxidil is a vasodilator that helps to increase blood flow to the scalp and promote hair growth. This medication is available over-the-counter and is often recommended by dermatologists for the treatment of telogen effluvium.

Medications

In some cases, medications may also be prescribed to address the underlying cause of telogen effluvium, such as hormonal imbalances or autoimmune disorders. For example, if an autoimmune disorder is causing the hair loss, medications may be prescribed to help control the autoimmune response and promote hair regrowth.

Lifestyle changes 

In addition to medications, there are several lifestyle changes that can help to promote hair regrowth in those with telogen effluvium. Stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, and meditation, can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, which in turn can help to promote hair regrowth. Additionally, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help to improve overall health and support healthy hair growth.

Hair transplant

Another option for treating telogen effluvium is hair transplant surgery. Hair transplant involves transplanting hair follicles from one area of the scalp to another. This procedure is typically performed by a hair transplant expert and is often recommended for those with severe or persistent telogen effluvium.

Scalp massage

Finally, scalp massage and light therapy, such as low-level laser therapy (LLLT), can also be effective treatments for telogen effluvium. Scalp massage can help to increase blood flow to the scalp and promote hair growth, while light therapy can help to improve the overall health of the hair follicles and promote hair regrowth.

Hair Regrowth after Telogen Effluvium

The hair regrowth process after telogen effluvium can vary greatly depending on the underlying cause of the condition and the course of treatment. In some cases, the hair may regrow within a few months of treatment. In other cases, it may take several months or even years for the hair to regrow. The best way to promote hair regrowth is to address the underlying cause of the hair loss and to follow a healthy hair care routine, including regular shampooing and conditioning.

Should You Have a Hair Transplant with Telogen Effluvium?

In many cases, a hair transplant may not be necessary for those with telogen effluvium. The best course of action is to address the underlying cause of the hair loss and to follow a healthy hair care routine. However, in severe cases, a hair transplant may be recommended to restore the hair and improve the appearance of the scalp. It is important to speak with a hair loss specialist to determine the best course of action for your individual situation.

Conclusion

Telogen effluvium is a common condition that affects the hair growth cycle and causes hair loss. While this condition can be concerning, it is often treatable and the hair can regrow with the right course of treatment. If you are experiencing hair loss, it is important to speak with a hair loss specialist to determine the underlying cause and to determine the best course of action, there are many treatment options available for telogen effluvium, including lifestyle changes, medications, hair restoration surgery, scalp massage, and light therapy. The key to successful treatment is to first identify and address the underlying cause of the hair loss and then choose a treatment that is appropriate for the individual’s specific needs and goals. With the right treatment and care, it is possible for those with telogen effluvium to experience significant improvement in their hair health and growth.