After male and female pattern baldness, telogen effluvium (TE) is the most common type of hair loss. The word “effluvium” means effusion, which describes the hair loss caused by this disorder. “Telogen” refers to the resting phase of the hair follicle. Here, we explore the causes of telogen effluvium and learn about symptoms and treatment options.
Causes of Telogen Effluvium
This common disorder has not been extensively researched, and is poorly understood. However, studies have revealed some contributing factors.
Hair follicles, the tiny shafts in the skin that are responsible for hair growth, have two distinct phases. The anogen phase, or growth phase, usually lasts about 10 months; During this time the hair shaft is actively growing.
In normal individuals, approximately 80% to 90% of follicles are in the anogen phase at all times. The telogen phase, or resting phase, lasts about two months. During this stage, the follicle is in a dormant state, and the hair falls out due to natural shedding.
In individuals with TE, there is a significant increase in the number of follicles in the telogen phase, leading to hair loss. While medical experts aren’t entirely sure why this occurs, it is thought that stress and trauma may be linked to an increase in telogen-phase follicles. Poor diet and certain medications have also been linked to temporary hair loss. Once these factors subside, the follicles eventually recover and re-enter the growth phase, restoring normal hair growth.
Symptoms of effluvium
Individuals with TE typically experience an overall thinning of the scalp hair; Hair loss can be more severe in some areas. Generally, more hair is lost on the top of the head than on the back or sides, although there is no receding hairline.
treatment options
TE hair loss is not permanent, as there is no actual damage to the hair follicle. While re-growth will occur naturally after a time, many people choose to actively treat the condition for cosmetic reasons. The most common treatment for TE is minoxidil, which is applied directly to the scalp twice daily. While medication should be used as long as the factor causing the condition is present, most people can stop using treatment once the trigger is removed.
Source by W. Seetal
