Symptom 6. Dry and Thin Hair: A Distress Signal from Your Tresses
A lesser-known but impactful symptom of Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis is changes to the hair. If you’ve noticed your once-lush hair turning dry, brittle, or thinning dramatically, Hashimoto’s might be playing a part behind the scenes.
The thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in the life cycle of a hair follicle. It aids in hair growth and contributes to the retention of the hair on the scalp. When Hashimoto’s impedes the thyroid’s functioning, it can disrupt these processes, leading to changes in the hair’s texture and volume.
This symptom isn’t merely cosmetic. It’s a signal from your body, a visible sign of the internal changes wrought by Hashimoto’s. It’s a symptom that adds to the emotional burden of Hashimoto’s, impacting self-esteem and body image.
Yet, recognizing this symptom for what it is – a reflection of a body grappling with Hashimoto’s – can be a step towards addressing the issue. It’s not simply about managing hair care; it’s about understanding the deeper implications of an underactive thyroid.
Hashimoto’s-related changes to hair underscore the interconnections within the body. It reminds us of how a disruption in one area, like thyroid functioning, can manifest in unexpected ways, such as changes in hair health. (6)
