Chronic Headaches Linked to Hair Loss?

Headaches are common in our lives. The primary symptom of headache is pain in either the forehead region or the head/scalp. It can be constant, dull, throbbing, or sharp. If you think there is a connection between hair loss and headaches, read this blog to learn about it.

The idea of headaches leading to hair loss raises a few eyebrows, yet there is some science behind the connection. While the headaches themselves may not directly result in hair loss, the factors contributing to both conditions are often intertwined.

Connection Between Stress and Hair Loss

One of the biggest culprits binding chronic headaches and hair loss is stress. Consider the physiological impact of prolonged stress:

• Heightened stress levels can trigger “telogen effluvium,” a condition where hair follicles enter a resting phase, causing excessive shedding.
• People under stress may also notice increased scalp tension, leading to restricted blood flow and suboptimal follicle health.

If your chronic headaches are stress-induced, it’s possible they might contribute to stress-related hair loss as well.

There are more than 150 types of headaches. Some of these include tension, cluster, migraines and sinus headaches. These are described below-

Tension Headaches

These are one of the most common types, which vary from mild to moderate. These have a bilateral effect, meaning it is felt on both sides of your head.

Migraines

They are the primary type of headaches whose symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and moderate to severe pain in the head, the episodes of which occur frequently. However, you may experience hair loss due to migraines.

Cluster Headaches

These are the types of headaches that occur in groups or clusters. These are associated with throbbing and intense burning sensations.

Sinus Headaches

These headaches are characterised by constant pain around the forehead and on the bridge of the nose.

Stress can result in chronic headaches leading to hair loss. The different ways in which hair loss and headaches can be prevented are as follows:

Sleeping Schedules and Eating Patterns

When there is constant change in the eating and sleeping schedule leads to headaches as your body cannot adapt to the changing process. Therefore, sound sleep and a balanced diet are essential for preventing hair loss and maintaining good growth.

Regular Massages and Oiling

Different oils such as coconut and olive oil help in conditioning the hair deeply, along with reducing pain from chronic headaches.

Gentle Hair Styles

Tight ponytails pull the hair from the root, causing hair shedding and headaches. Gentle hairstyles help ensure that your hair is properly tied up.

However, if you have a persistent headache, then you must consult your doctor. Your doctor can consider different types of headaches, including secondary and primary, and determine which is consistent with your conditions.

If you are facing hair loss and think this is due to a headache, please consult a dermatologist at HairMD to get the right diagnosis and find the reason for hair loss. Our experienced dermatologists will guide you on hair loss and headaches and provide personalised treatment.