Karen’s Free Health and Fitness Tips

Diabetes is a disease that strikes more and more people every day. Most people do not realize that thinning of the hair or hair loss is one of the early symptoms of diabetes. With early detection and treatment, hair loss as well as other complications can be avoided. There are many factors leading to the development of diabetes, including stress. Diabetes affects the body on every level and can cause excessive anxiety which is a well known contributor to hair loss.

Diabetes occurs when the body is unable to produce enough insulin to help the body metabolize carbohydrate. One issue face by individuals with diabetes is the increased potential for problems with their skin. This is due to poor blood circulation and elevated blood sugar levels. They are more susceptible bruising and injuries that are difficult to heal. The recovery rate for diabetics tends to be slow including hair re-growth. This in turn leads to a noticeable hair loss. In addition, diabetics are susceptible bacterial and fungal infections of the scalp which can promote hair loss as well.

Type 1 diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease and often creates small bald patches on the scalp. This condition is called alopecia areata. It is often accompanied with other health issues including dysfunctional thyroid, a skin condition know as vitiligo which is characterized by the loss of pigment on large patches of skin most commonly on the hands, face and genitalia. Pernicious anemia is also a potential issue for people with diabetes. This is a condition in which the lining of the stomach no longer secretes enough enzymes to allow sufficient absorption of the vitamin B12.

Diabetes often goes undetected because the early symptoms are often over looked and frequently over looked or even ignored by the patient and even physicians. This often leads to serious problems, including blindness, kidney failure and heart disease. Early detection and treatment can slow or arrest the progression of the disease, prevent excessive hair loss and lead to longer and healthier life. Successful treatment of diabetes requires commitment on the part of the patient to manage their lifestyle and the disease consistently.

Hair loss typically begins with the onset of diabetes and increases in severity as the disease progresses. Early diagnosis of the hair loss and its cause is essential as it may be your body’s way of telling you that something more serious is happening. It is imperative that you seek a physician’s advice concerning you hair loss problem to prevent further hair loss. While lotions and conditioners are readily available, they may not be sufficient to stop you hair loss problem. Consulting with a physician is the best way to get a handle on the situation and treat it properly from the beginning.

By: Andrea Dilea

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