hair loss after illness

In March of this year I was hospitalized for 9 day with the flu and pneumonia. While I was in the hospital my hair came out in clumps a few times, but in the last few weeks I’ve noticed large amount of loss and breakage. My doctor thinks it’s from the shock of being in the ICU and there’s nothing to worry about. She did order a blood test to check my thyroid. Has anyone experienced this? If so, when do things return to normal? I'm now entering my third month of being out of the hospital, should I still be seeing hair loss and breakage?<br><br>Post edited by: Michelle, at: 2008/06/02 00:29

There are many differing factors which cause aloepecia.
You really need to take your physician's advice on this.

(In my case, it's Chemo!)

There are a few small things which you can do however. change your shampoo to the mildest one you can find, Johnsons Baby, or similar. don't use any chemicals on your hair, including conditioners, colourings.

Eat a healthy diet, drink loads of water.

and if it gets too bad, do what i do, and either buy a nice lot of wigs, all different colours, or get some olive oil, and polish!

I hope you both get well soon

poshpaws - thanks for the tips. My hair isn't falling out as much. Tomorrow I'm going to see a dermatologist hopefully he'll reiterate what my doctor said.

I hope you get well soon.

ducky - thank you. <br><br>Post edited by: Michelle, at: 2008/06/08 17:24

michelle I am glad there is an inprovement.. hope the dermatoligist can help you <br><br>Post edited by: ducky, at: 2008/06/08 17:37

I went to see the dermatologist today. He said everything is fine. My hair loss is from the shock of being ill and my hair will grow back...but it will take time. So I need to be patient. I'm not exactly known for my patience.<br><br>Post edited by: Michelle, at: 2008/06/09 22:53

Treat yourself to a day out at the hairdressers -- they can do wonderful things with the hair you've got, and even add some (temporarily), or get a couple of wigs..

I already got it cut, which added fullness. I'm not to the point that I need a wig. Its just the top of my head has thinned out which makes my part look big. From what I hear it can take a long time to grow back.

hair loss during and after illhealth is common

some people have had success taking biotin supplements, its one of the Bvitamins, and can help both nails and hair grow stronger.


xx suzan xx

Thank you Suzan.

I lost my hair about 2 years ago, it starts to grow and then it just falls out again, my doctor has put it down to my many medication. so I have to wear wigs which the doctor referred me to the hospital. I always had a thick head of hair, I am just getting used to wearing wigs, the only thing I can say about it is you can change the colour of your hair. I have just about excepted it. I was very ill though when it happened.

I use the M.Gardson's method for my hair loss., 2x daily and absolutely love it. Also avoid shampoos and conditioners which contain sodium lauryl sulphate