Losing 500 hairs a day is more than the average person sheds, which is around 50 to 100 hairs. This increased hair loss could be a sign of a condition called telogen effluvium. Telogen effluvium is a temporary condition where your hair enters the resting phase prematurely, causing more hair to fall out than usual. This can be triggered by various events or conditions, such as:
- Stress: Physical or emotional stress can disrupt the hair growth cycle.
- Medical events: Surgery, childbirth, or even a high fever can cause telogen effluvium.
- Thyroid imbalance: Problems with the thyroid gland can affect hair growth.
- Medications: Certain medications can cause hair loss as a side effect.
- Nutritional deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients like iron, zinc, or protein can lead to hair loss.
While telogen effluvium can be alarming, it's usually temporary, and your hair will regrow once the underlying cause is addressed. If you're concerned about your hair loss, it's best to consult a dermatologist to determine the cause and discuss potential treatments.
