Thyroid Disease and Hair Loss: Understanding the Connection

Hair loss is a common problem with all types of thyroid disease, and it is not uncommon for patients with thyroid disorders to report hair thinning even after starting treatment.

Hair Changes

• Hair loss is reported by both hyperactive and hypoactive thyroid sufferers. Changes in hair texture and appearance are often common as well, as hair grows dry and coarse.

Features

• Thyroid related hair loss is characterized by overall thinning of the hair. Localized hair loss or patterned hair loss may be a symptom of another condition, even if you have a thyroid problem.

Medication and Treatments

• Levothyroxine, also known by the brand name Synthroid, is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism. According to patient information, one side effect of this medication is hair loss. Treatment for thyroid cancer can also cause hair loss.

Expert Insight

• According to Dr. Stephen Langer, a thyroid-illness researcher, evening primrose oil may be helpful in halting hair loss in thyroid patients. Dr. Hugh Rushton, a professor at Portsmouth University in Great Britain, conducted a study that found that iron supplements were helpful for the same purpose.

Warnings

• Even though hair loss can be a side effect of treatment as well as symptom, check with your doctor to see if you need a dose adjustment if hair loss persists with treatment.