Telogen Effluvium

Telogen effluvium (TE) is a common hair loss condition

Telogen effluvium is also  known as 'reflective' or 'symptomatic' hair loss. It's a common hair loss condition which causes excessive hair shedding. A  general thinning of the hair is seen on the scalp, as opposed to one or more individual circular patches.

 What is Telogen Effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is a hair condition that causes larger than normal numbers of hair follicles to simultaneously enter the telogen - resting phase.


As your hair shedding continues it can be seen falling out in greater volume. This can be distressing for people and causes unwanted added stress. 

What causes telogen effluvium?

Telogen effluvium is linked to various illnesses, and shock or stress can trigger this hair condition in many cases. 


Telogen effluvium is often seen as the aftermath of ear, tooth or throat infections.


Other factors can also be responsible which will only be determined upon examination by an expert trichologist.

A close look at your lifestyle and general health will help to determine the underlying causes.   


Blood testing to eliminate systemic causes such as anaemia

The triggers for telogen effluvium can be varied and include

Stress

Telogen effluvium is often caused by severe stress. This can include emotional stress, physiological stress, or psychological stress.


Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes, such as those that occur with PCOS, after pregnancy or during menopause, can trigger telogen effluvium.


Medications

Certain medications have been linked to telogen effluvium, including beta-blockers, retinoids, anticoagulants, propylthiouracil, carbamazepine, and immunisations.





Illness or surgery

Acute or chronic illness, surgical operations, accidents (blood loss), and febrile illnesses can trigger telogen effluvium.


Nutritional deficiencies

Severe protein, fatty acid, and zinc deficiency, chronic starvation, and yo-yo dieting can lead to telogen effluvium.


Toxins

Exposure to toxins through chemicals can also cause an allergic reaction, whereby telogen effluvium occurs as one of the many symptoms. 


Covid 19

There have been studies of Post-SARS-CoV-2 telogen effluvium which has been described in case reports of COVID-19 patients.


Who can be affected by telogen effluvium

Telogen effluvium can affect men, however, is most common in women. This condition can occur after childbirth or an acute illness.


With childbirth the hormone surges can cause the hair to shed. In many of these cases the hair will grow back in 3- 6 months after delivery.


With an acute illness, once a patient has recovered then the hair generally recovers spontaniously.


Menopause and hormonal changes can also cause telogen effluvium.



Is telogen effluvium curable?

Yes, Telogen effluvium is a curable condition. This type of hair loss is treatable and can recover spontaneously, if the cause has been eliminated.


Once you have eliminated the trigger, the shedding should slow down and new hairs will emerge as the new growth phase continues - uninterrupted.


In most cases, Telogen Effluvium (TE) does not require treatment, and the hair will start growing back once the trigger is removed.

For chronic telogen effluvium treatment a visit to the trichologist is essential.


If the hair loss is severe or prolonged, there are effective treatment options available


Putting the patient’s mind at rest can often be the start of the recovery process.

How is telogen effluvium treated?

Telogen effluvium can be treated after a thorough examination during your consultation.


Once your diagnosis has revealed whether it is an acute or chronic telogen effluvium, then any relevant treatments can be administered.

Blood tests may be necessary and these results will determine your type of treatment plan.


Electrotherapy treatments and scalp massage may also be given during your treatment.


Here at TrichoSynergy you will be assessed and have the best treatment for telogen effluvium personalised and designed for you.


Worried about TE hair loss?

If you are experiencing any concerns about your hair loss, book a consultation and start restoring your hair.

Do you need to talk to a Trichologist about Telogen Effluvium?

If you are feeling worried about your scalp condition and think you may be suffering from telogen effluvium use the contact form below or call and book an appointment.

Types of Alopecia

There are many different types of alopecia all with varying causes. Some of the most common include; Alopecia Areata , Androgenic Alopecia , Centrifugal Cicatrical Alopecia , Chemical Alopecia , Frontal Fibrosing Alopecia , Telogen Effluvium and Traction Alopecia .

See more hair and scalp conditions

Are you suffering from thinning hair, hair loss, patchy areas or Itchy flaky scalp? If you think you are suffering from any of the conditions you see book an appointment with your local trichologist. The sooner you start treatment the better.

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