Why Does Diabetes Causes Hair Loss?

Circulation and Hormones

The poor circulation of diabetics not only affects organs of the body, but it can affect the scalp and the hair follicles. This slows the growth of hair. If hair grows slowly, the old hair falls out before follicles can build new replacement hair. Diabetes is also a disease that affects the hormones and hormonal imbalances are one of the most common causes of hair loss. This is especially true for women with diabetes.

Medication and Stress

The medications taken by diabetics can disrupt the hair growth cycle. Medications can also cause dehydration, also a contributor to hair loss. Stress is a factor in hair growth and hair loss. The mental stress of managing diabetes can contribute to hair loss and slowing of hair growth. Stress can also cause poor eating habits, which affect the growth in the body.

Infections and Illness

Diabetics are prone to infections, including those in the skin. Infections of the hair follicles can cause hair to fall out and less hair to grow in that area in the future. Diabetes also affects the immune system and diabetics are prone to more frequent illness. Hair growth and loss is especially prevalent in sick bodies. Fungal diseases are also common in diabetics and can be found on the scalp.

Resources

• Diabetes and Hair Loss
• American Diabetes Association