If you or a loved one is experiencing sudden hair loss following having COVID-19, don’t panic.
Fever is a common symptom of COVID-19. A few months after having a high fever or recovering from an illness, many people see noticeable hair loss. Despite the common misconception that it is hair loss, it’s actually hair shedding, medically known as telogen effluvium. It occurs when a higher volume of hair enters the shedding (telogen) phase of the natural growth cycle simultaneously. A fever or illness can trigger more hairs to enter the shedding phase, typically two to three months following a high fever or illness.
Telogen effluvium causes visible hair shedding, but that’s all you should experience. If you have a rash, itchy scalp, or burning, it could be an entirely different condition and it’s time to see a dermatologist.
Emotional stress can also be a trigger. For those who have never had COVID-19 or developed a high fever, stress can wreak havoc on your locks. Hair shedding also happens two to three months after the onset of stress. While seeing your hair fall out in clumps can certainly add to anxiety, it’s highly important to try to de-stress. Only when the stress ends will the excessive hair shedding stop.
Be patient. Hair tends to return to normal on its own. Once the cause of the onset of hair shedding subsides, your hair will grow back. Most people see their hair return to normal within six to nine months.
Don’t be at a loss with hair loss! Schedule an appointment to discuss treatment options with one of our expert Medical Providers at 520.795.7729, Ext. 0
