Does hyperthyroidism cause hair loss
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Hyperthyroidism and Hair Loss: An In-Depth Analysis
Introduction to Hyperthyroidism and Hair Loss
Hyperthyroidism, a condition characterized by the overproduction of thyroid hormones, has been linked to various physiological changes, including hair loss. This article synthesizes findings from multiple research studies to explore the relationship between hyperthyroidism and hair loss.
Thyroid Hormones and Hair Follicle Function
Thyroid hormones play a crucial role in the function, growth, and development of hair follicles. These hormones influence the growth cycle of hair, and any imbalance can lead to hair disorders. Both hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism can disrupt the normal cycling of hair follicles, leading to hair loss 246.
Evidence Linking Hyperthyroidism to Hair Loss
Several studies have highlighted the connection between hyperthyroidism and hair loss. Research indicates that fluctuations in thyroid hormone levels, including those seen in hyperthyroidism, can result in alopecia, a condition characterized by hair loss 4. Additionally, hyperthyroidism has been identified as a cause of widespread hair shedding, further supporting the link between thyroid dysfunction and hair loss 2.
Prevalence and Impact of Thyroid Disorders on Hair Loss
The prevalence of hair loss due to thyroid disorders, including hyperthyroidism, is often underestimated. A comprehensive review of scientific articles has shown that thyroid dysfunction is a significant factor in hair loss, affecting individuals across different age groups and sexes 2. This underscores the importance of considering thyroid function in the diagnosis and management of hair disorders.
Clinical Observations and Recommendations
Clinical observations suggest that hair loss should prompt an evaluation for thyroid disease. This is because thyroid dysfunction, including hyperthyroidism, can be either a direct cause or an associated factor in hair loss 4. Therefore, healthcare providers are encouraged to include thyroid function tests as part of the diagnostic workup for patients presenting with hair loss.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is substantial evidence linking hyperthyroidism to hair loss. Thyroid hormones are integral to hair follicle health, and imbalances such as those seen in hyperthyroidism can lead to significant hair shedding. Recognizing the role of thyroid dysfunction in hair loss can improve diagnosis and treatment, ultimately benefiting patients experiencing this distressing symptom. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms and to develop targeted therapies for hair loss associated with thyroid disorders.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic
Brittle Nails and Hair Loss in Hypothyroidism.
Hypothyroidism can cause brittle nails and hair loss, with a diagnosis of Hashimoto's thyroiditis being made after a thorough clinical examination.
Case Report
Rigorous JournalImpact of Thyroid Dysfunction on Hair Disorders
Thyroid disorders have an underestimated prevalence and impact on hair loss, highlighting the need for more research to improve diagnosis and management of hair disorders.
Literature ReviewHair loss due to methylphenidate use: A case study
Methylphenidate use may cause hair loss, but it is not a definitive diagnosis until hair regrowth occurs after discontinuing medication and observing recurrence.
Case ReportRigorous JournalAlopecia and Thyroid Disease
Thyroid hormone fluctuations may cause alopecia, and evaluating thyroid disease should be part of any hair loss workup.
Zinc Deficiency Associated with Hypothyroidism: An Overlooked Cause of Severe Alopecia
Hypothyroidism can lead to zinc deficiency, which may not improve with thyroxine alone, and zinc supplements may be necessary for hair loss treatment.
Case Report
Highly CitedThyroid Functions in Patients with Diffuse Hair Loss
Abnormal thyroid functions are significant in a significant number of diffuse hair loss cases, making it mandatory to investigate them in all cases of diffuse hair loss in adult women.
Hair loss and hyperprolactinemia in women
Moderate elevated prolactin levels in association with diffuse or androgenetic hair loss in women should not be considered causative for the hair loss, as they do not influence the pattern, extent, or duration of the hair loss.
Dermoscopic Findings of Alopecia in Patients with Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroid patients with hair loss may have dermoscopic signs of inflammation, suggesting a potential link between thyroid hormones and hair loss.
Observational Study
Very Rigorous JournalDiffuse scalp hair loss due to levothyroxine overdose
Levothyroxine overdose can cause diffuse scalp hair loss in infants, but reducing the dose can lead to normal hair growth and no further hair loss.
Case ReportOverexpression of parathyroid hormone-related protein in the skin of transgenic mice interferes with hair follicle development.
Overexpression of PTHrP in skin disrupts normal hair follicle development, suggesting it plays a role in early stages of hair follicle development and may regulate cellular differentiation.
Non-RCT
Animal StudyHighly Cited