Understanding Telogen Effluvium (Stress-Induced Hair Fall)

Noticing more hair on your pillow, brush, or shower drain than usual can be worrying. One of the most common reasons for sudden, excessive hair shedding is a condition called Telogen Effluvium — often linked to stress, illness, or major lifestyle changes. The good news? It’s usually temporary and treatable with the right care.

What Is Telogen Effluvium?

Your hair naturally goes through a growth cycle with phases of growing, resting, and shedding. Normally, only a small percentage of your hair is in the resting (telogen) phase. In Telogen Effluvium, however, a large number of hair follicles enter this resting phase all at once — leading to noticeable hair fall a few weeks or months later.

This shift is usually triggered by physical or emotional stress, nutritional imbalances, or hormonal changes. Once the underlying cause is addressed, the hair typically grows back within a few months.

What Causes Telogen Effluvium?

There’s no single cause, but several factors can contribute to this kind of hair loss:

• Emotional or Physical Stress: Major life changes, anxiety, or trauma can affect the hair growth cycle.

• Illness or High Fever: Serious infections or long-term illnesses can temporarily disturb normal hair growth.

• Postpartum Changes: Many women experience this type of hair loss after childbirth due to hormonal shifts.

• Nutrient Deficiencies: Low levels of iron, vitamin D, or protein can weaken hair follicles.

• Medications: Some treatments for blood pressure, depression, or hormones may cause shedding.

• Crash Dieting or Weight Loss: Sudden changes in diet can lead to nutritional gaps and trigger hair fall.

A Dermatologist in Roorkee can help pinpoint the exact cause through a thorough scalp analysis and lab tests, ensuring you get the right treatment.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Telogen Effluvium doesn’t cause bald patches, but it does make your hair appear thinner or less voluminous. You might notice:

• More hair on your pillow or shower drain

• Thinning around the crown or temples

• Hair shedding easily while brushing or washing

• Reduced overall hair density

If you see these signs, it’s best to seek advice from a Skin Specialist in Roorkee for proper evaluation and early management.

How It’s Treated

The key to treating Telogen Effluvium is identifying and addressing what’s causing it. A Dermatologist in Roorkee will check your medical history, examine your scalp, and may recommend tests to rule out deficiencies or hormonal imbalances.

Common treatment options include:

• Nutritional Support: Supplements with iron, biotin, zinc, and vitamin D strengthen the hair from the roots.

• Topical Treatments: Medications like minoxidil can help stimulate new growth.

• Scalp Therapies: PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) therapy or microneedling can encourage natural regrowth.

• Lifestyle Modifications: Managing stress, getting enough rest, and eating a balanced diet all help restore healthy hair.

Hair regrowth often starts within 3 to 6 months once the underlying issue is treated.

Preventing Future Hair Fall

You can reduce the risk of Telogen Effluvium by taking proactive steps to protect your hair health:

• Eat a protein- and vitamin-rich diet

• Avoid over-styling or harsh chemical treatments

• Manage stress through relaxation techniques

• Maintain a consistent sleep routine

• Schedule regular check-ups with a Skin Specialist in Roorkee to monitor scalp health

Conclusion

Telogen Effluvium can be distressing, but it’s important to remember that it’s not permanent. With the right diagnosis and care, your hair can recover fully.

At Dr. Hera Skin and Hair Clinic, our experienced Dermatologist in Roorkee, Dr. Hera Tabassum, provides personalized treatments designed to restore hair growth and confidence. From scalp therapies to nutrition guidance, every plan is customized for your needs.

If you’ve noticed sudden hair thinning or excessive shedding, don’t wait for it to worsen. Visit a trusted Skin Specialist in Roorkee today to begin your journey toward stronger, healthier hair.