Tips To Deal With Post-Covid Hair Loss
The destruction wrought by Covid-19 has been immense – loss of life tops the charts but the overall effect on health and wellness has not been far behind. One of the most prevalent effects of long Covid is hair loss. This is not a new phenomenon. According to Dr Dilshad Pais, Area Medical Head, Oliva Skin & Hair Clinic, Bengaluru, “In medical parlance, acute hair loss triggered by a medical illness or emotional stress is known as Telogen Effluvium. It occurs as the body tries to conserve its resources during the recovery period. This subsequently increases the percentage of hair in the shedding phase, and the hair fall usually starts three to four months post-illness or any stressful event. The other causes of hair loss due to Covid-19 are inflammation and microthrombi (clots) that reduce the blood supply to the hair follicle.”
A recent study has revealed that almost 70% of Covid-19 patients who had to undergo hospitalisation suffered from hair loss post-recovery. However, in actual effect, there seems no relation between hospitalisation or the severity of the disease with hair loss, and doctors across the board have noted that most people recovering from Covid-19 complain of some form of hair fall. Pre-existing vitamin deficiencies may further aggravate post-Covid-19 hair fall. Invariably, stressing about the hair fall, also worsens it.
Oliva Skin & Hair Clinics have been at the forefront in addressing this problem. Dr Pais shares, “In the last year, almost 50% of our clients who have come for hair consultation complain of post-Covid-19 hair loss.” Established in 2009 by Dr Prashant Soma, Oliva Skin & Hair Clinic has been a pioneer in introducing advanced medico-aesthetic solutions based on cutting-edge technological innovations and revolutionising India’s dermatology service sector. Since its launch, it has expanded to seven major cities with 23 clinics, and boasts more than 3,00,000 happy customers. Residents of Hyderabad, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Pune, Vizag, and Kochi can visit their nearest Oliva clinic to seek expert advice from their experienced dermato-trichologists. People living in other places too can connect with their experienced medical team via e-consultation to seek customised treatments.
When asked if Covid-19 related hair loss is different from regular hair loss, Dr Pais explains, “Losing up to 100 hair strands a day is normal. However, post-Covid-19, your hair fall may double, and you may lose more than 200 strands a day. The first step to control post-Covid-19 hair loss is to relax and allow some time for your body to recoup and return to normal after suffering from such a severe illness. At Oliva, we have a holistic approach, and we focus on identifying the underlying cause of hair loss and customising the treatment plan accordingly. We may prescribe a few diagnostic tests to assess your nutritional status after physically examining your hair and scalp condition and noting your medical records and family history of balding.”
She goes on to point out that Telogen Effluvium may subside naturally within three months of onset. However, any underlying nutritional deficiency that remains untreated could prolong the post-Covid-19 hair fall and cause other health complications. So if you are noting increasing hair fall even six months after recovery from Covid-19, it is time to speak to your doctor on priority. Remember, seeking immediate medical attention is critical to achieving the best results of hair loss treatment.
Dr Pais shares some simple tips to fast-track your post-Covid-19 recovery and reduce your hair fall:
1. Consume a nutrient-dense diet rich in protein and essential vitamins like B12, D and minerals like iron. Include foods rich in antioxidants having anti-inflammatory properties like nuts, eggs, green leafy vegetables, soybeans and sunflower seeds in your regular diet.
2. Take adequate rest to help your body conserve its energy and recover fast. Sleep for at least 7-8 hours daily.
3. Manage your stress levels by practising meditation.
4. Hydrate your body well by drinking 8-10 glasses of water every day.
5. Exercise regularly to boost your metabolism and immune system.
6. Try to quit unhealthy habits like drinking alcohol and smoking.
7. Avoid opting for chemical or heat-based hair treatments, tight buns or ponytails.
8. Do not dry your hair vigorously, instead, use a soft cotton towel to pat dry your hair.
9. Reduce your screen time and avoid prolonged use of laptops, TV, tablets and phones.
