What Causes Hair Loss : Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a common condition where the thyroid doesn't create and release enough thyroid hormone into your bloodstream. This makes your metabolism slow down.

Thyroid hormones impact your skin’s tissues. When hormone production is disrupted, it can affect the development of your hair at its root. This can cause coarse hair and hair loss.

Hair loss from hypothyroidism involves the entire scalp, not specific areas. It usually grows back when you treat hypothyroidism, although it can take a few months.

The body's control of the thyroid levels helps stabilize mood. Patients with hypothyroidism may experience symptoms of depression, restlessness and anxiety. Studies have also found that people with bipolar disorder often have abnormal thyroid function.

Low iron levels can cause low ferritin, which is a blood protein associated with hair growth. Getting more iron from food and/or taking an iron supplement might help.