Stress-Related Hair Loss Due to Covid-19

Already a year into the pandemic and we are still learning more about how this virus is affecting our health and well-being. Dermatologists have reported an increase in hair-loss related visits due to the stress caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported hair loss as being one of the long-term affects of the virus. The investigation is still ongoing and has not tied Covid-19 as the direct cause of hair loss, but it does suggest that Telogen Effluvium is occurring in Covid-19 survivors.

What is Telogen Effluvium (TE)?

The medical condition associated with the sudden hair loss of Covid-19 survivors is called Telogen Effluvium (TE). The condition results from a shock to the body that is caused by stress or an illness. This results in excessive shedding and causes the hair to look very thin on the scalp. It can be limited to one area or appear all over. Stress can be toxic and living through a pandemic is stressful enough to trigger TE. Vaccinations can also send the body into shock and send the hair follicles into a prolonged resting stage. Thankfully the triggering event is reversible if effectively treated and hair will begin to grow back.  

How to Prevent Telogen Effluvium during the Pandemic?

Remember that quarantine stressors can trigger TE. Reduce those stressors by avoiding infection fears, boredom, and listening to inadequate information. Linda Bjork, author and founder of Hope for Healing, offers 17 tips  on how to relieve stress, worry, and anxiety. Eating a healthy diet that is high in protein, Iron, Zinc, and B-12 is very beneficial in preventing hair loss as well as using products that cater to hair loss.