Question: Can stress cause hair loss?
Answer: Yes
For some people, high levels of stress over prolonged periods of time can cause hair loss. The loss can be the result of stress caused by medical, dietary or lifestyle changes or stresses. In most cases the hair loss is temporary, as long as the stressor is temporary.
However, in extreme causes where the stress levels are severe, it is possible to develop a medical condition such as Alopecia areata or Telogen effluvium. Alopecia occurs when white blood cells attack the hair follicle and cause hair to fall out and stop growing, while Telogen effluvium causes hair to stop growing and go into its resting phase, where months later it may suddenly fall out. If you are concerned that you may be suffering from stress related hair loss, be sure to contact your doctor for diagnosis and treatment options.
