Symptom 8. Thinning of Hair – The Silent Indicator
In addition to the more prominent symptoms, Graves’ disease can also manifest subtly, such as through hair thinning. This is an effect of the increased metabolism triggered by the overproduction of thyroid hormones. It’s important to note that hair thinning refers to a general reduction in the thickness or volume of hair, not specific bald patches, which could be due to different conditions.
Hair thinning can be particularly distressing as it directly impacts one’s appearance and self-esteem. Moreover, it can be tricky to associate this symptom with Graves’ disease since hair loss could be attributed to numerous other factors like age, genetics, or other health conditions. But in the context of Graves’ disease, it could serve as a silent yet vital clue towards diagnosis.
Thinning of hair due to Graves’ disease typically occurs evenly across the scalp. It’s a fairly common symptom and can occur in both men and women with the condition.
While it’s not a life-threatening symptom, it can affect a person’s quality of life, causing emotional distress and a loss of self-confidence. It’s also worth mentioning that this symptom might become more noticeable as the disease progresses if left untreated.
One common coping strategy men use when faced with thinning hair is to cut their hair short. However, this is more of a cosmetic solution and does not address the underlying cause. If you’re noticing significant thinning of your hair coupled with other symptoms mentioned in this article, it might be time to consult with a healthcare professional. (8)
