Iron deficiency anaemia means the body is lacking in iron. This health condition could cause clumps of hair to fall out in the shower, or when you’re brushing it. However, there are other signs too.
The NHS said the four most common symptoms of iron deficiency anaemia are:
- Tiredness and lack of energy
- Shortness of breath
- Noticeable heartbeats (heart palpitations)
- Pale skin
Other symptoms can include: headaches, tinnitus, food tasting strange and feeling itchy.
Moreover, a person with iron deficiency anaemia may have a sore tongue.
Fortunately, research suggests that iron deficiency hair loss “seems to be related to hair loss that doesn’t scar the hair follicles”.
This means that there is “promising” opportunity for hair regrowth once the underlying medical condition is treated.
Diagnosis
Your GP can arrange a blood test for you to check your iron levels in your body.
Treatment for iron deficiency anaemia can include prescribed iron supplements.
The NHS also suggests cutting back on certain foods and drinks that can make it harder for your body to absorb iron. These include:
“Hair loss caused by a medical condition usually stops or grows back once you have recovered,” said the NHS.
If hair loss isn’t due to an underlying medical condition, then the use of minoxidil is recommended.