Hair loss can often be a sign of underlying disease, and is sometimes the first indicator that you may notice that points to diabetes. If you are losing more hair than you used to, a quick visit to your doctor is in order. This is important, as it will help to identify or rule out underlying disease as the cause. If you are diagnosed with diabetes and this is the potential cause of your hair loss, then there are several things that you can do to control it. Diabetes can impact hair growth and loss in the following ways:

1. It can cause poor circulation. Blood circulation is critical to proper hair growth. Hair normally grows 2 to 6 inches every year, and when blood circulation is poor hair follicles don’t get the nutrients they need to support healthy hair growth. Existing hair strands tend to die and fall out faster, and new hairs aren’t produced fast enough to replace them.

2. Diabetics are often more susceptible to skin ailments, and skin conditions that effect the scalp can cause hair loss. Bacterial infections as well as fungal infections can lead to increased hair loss in diabetics.

3. The medication often prescribed and taken for diabetes can interrupt the normal cycle of hair growth. More often, this is reversed as the body adjusts to the medication, but anyone beginning medications should be aware of this.

4. Physiological and psychological stress usually accompany diabetes. These are direct factors in hair loss. When combined with the other effects of diabetes stress can be an even greater cause of hair loss.

If you have hair loss related to diabetes, here are some helpful suggestions:

1. Wait to see if the condition will right itself once you have been on your medication for some time. This may take a few or more months.

2. Keep your body hydrated. Eight glasses (8 0z. each) should be consumed daily, no matter what other liquids you consume.

3. Exercise regularly. Exercise increases blood circulation, and your head will be a recipient of that increased circulation. Your follicles will love you for it.

4. Try Yoga or some other form of relaxation to relieve stress and anxiety.

Diabetes is a significant diagnosis and a life-changing illness. Follow your physician’s instructions carefully and continue to do those things that you know are good for your general health. Hair health is affected by all that you do and consume.