Missy Elliott’s Graves’ Disease Causes Hair Loss

Hair loss

can be due to a variety of causes, from genetic pattern hair loss to stress-induced Alopecia and Telogen Effluvium. It can also be just one symptom of a more widespread condition affecting the whole body.

This was the case for popular American female rap-artist Missy Elliott. The 39-year old, whose hit singles include Get Ur Freak On, Work It and Lose Control, told People magazine recently about her struggle with Graves’ Disease.

Graves’ Disease and Hair Loss

Graves’ Disease is an auto-immune disease, in which the body’s own natural defences mistakenly attack healthy cells. It is often inherited genetically and, according to the NHS, it is most prevalent in women between the ages of 20 and 40. Smokers have also been found to be more susceptible to the condition.

Graves’ Disease affects the thyroid gland, a small butterfly-shaped gland located in the neck which is responsible for the production of hormones used to control the body’s metabolism. The condition is one of the most common causes of a hyperactive thyroid. Hair loss is perhaps one of the most visible signs of the condition, while others include tremors, irritability, excessive sweating, weight loss, fatigue, increased appetite and nervousness.

Missy Elliott has apparently suffered from the condition for three years, but only recently made it publicly known, in an interview with People magazine. She reveals that the first indication that she was suffering from Graves’ Disease came when she was driving: “I was trying to put my foot on the brake, but my leg was jumping. I couldn’t keep the brake down and almost crashed,” she said.

Hair loss followed soon afterwards, along with dramatic mood swings and other symptoms. Her symptoms have now eased, following radiation therapy and a regular exercise regime.

Hair loss due to hyperthyroidism

Graves’ Disease is an auto-immune disease which cause the thyroid gland to become overactive (hyperthyroidism) affect the production of new hair on the scalp and sometimes elsewhere on the body. The imbalance of hormones within the body can force hair follicles to enter the resting, or telogen, phase of the hair cycle prematurely, and remain there for a long period, effectively shutting down production. Eventually, hair loss is noticed because no new hairs are grown to replace those which are naturally shed over time.

If you suspect that your hair loss may be due to Graves’ Disease or another thyroid-related condition then you should see a doctor immediately, who can diagnose the problem and prescribe treatment to get it under control.

Help with hair loss

If you are experiencing hair loss and think it could be due to Graves’ Disease or another condition, such as Alopecia Areata, Genetic Hair Loss or Telogen Effluvium, The Belgravia Centre can help. Our hair loss experts have extensive experience in treating the full spectrum of hair loss conditions, and have the latest pharmaceutical and clinical treatments for hair loss at their disposal.

To find out how the Belgravia Centre can prevent further hair loss and promote hair re-growth, contact us for a consultation with no obligation. Alternatively, fill in our online diagnostic form for a home-use treatment programme that we can post anywhere in the world.