Is Hair Loss Caused By Stress 25 Years Ago, Permanent?'

Nancy

Question: Would like a natural way, if possible. Had accident about 25 years ago, when directly after a lot of hair fell out and did not grow back. A doctor said it would never grow back and the loss was due to stress. Would appreciate any helpful advice you can give. Thanks

Answer: Hi, Nancy. Firstly we would need to find out more about your hair loss - especially the pattern it takes and whether the hair fall was sudden or gradual. This is because there are a number of stress-related hair loss conditions, most of which can be treated and some which, at the present time, cannot.

As you have been experiencing this problem for 25 years, this rules out temporary conditions such as Telogen Effluvium or Chronic Telogen Effluvium. Although these are commonly caused by stress, they tend to last between 6 and 18 months, as long as the underlying cause of the trigger - for example, the stress - is dealt with. They can, however, prompt the onset of Female Pattern Hair Loss in women who have an existing genetic predisposition towards this hereditary condition.

This is permanent and causes progressively thinning hair from the top of the scalp and hairline, only. Therefore, if the temporary condition segues into the permanent one, it is common for people to assume it is still the same issue. In this instance, following a course of female hair loss treatment on an on-going basis can help to prevent further shedding and promote regrowth.

From what you have said here, it is possible that the hairloss could be Alopecia Areata which is an autoimmune disorder often triggered by a sudden shock, extreme stress or trauma. This causes sudden hair fall from anywhere on the scalp and leaves behind smooth rounded bald patches, rather than gradual hair thinning.

This patchy hair loss often resolves itself within a year, though in some cases it can come and go, or never grow back naturally. It is a fairly enigmatic condition which causes the suspension of the hair growth cycle, leaving some hairs get stuck in the phase where the hair is shed. If or when the hair will start to grow normally again is unpredictable, however, alopecia areata treatment may be effective in helping to accelerate the regrowth process.

There are currently no clinically-proven, MHRA-approved natural hair loss treatments - the only proven treatments are pharmaceutical and this is the approach we take here at Belgravia. Our specialists often use recommended formulations of high strength minoxidil and a range of appropriate hair growth boosters to form the basis of bespoke treatment plans.

As you can see, in order to give you thorough, personalised hair loss treatment advice we would need further information. The best way to do this is for you to either come in for a free consultation at one of our Central London clinics, or for you to complete an online consultation which allows you to upload photos. From here our specialists can provide you with a diagnosis, prognosis and, where appropriate, recommendations for treatments.