Hair Loss and Hormonal Imbalances: Your Questions Answered - Internal Medicine

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Some questions..?


Hello, doctor! I have some questions to ask!
1.
I read online that excessive masturbation can cause hair loss, while others say it does not.
Which one is correct?
2.
My friend has a lot of facial hair.
He mentioned that a doctor told him he has hormonal imbalance.
What are the symptoms of hormonal imbalance? Recently, I've started to notice hair on my chin, my face is very oily, and my scalp is also oily.
Do these indicate a hormonal imbalance?
3.
Can hormonal imbalance lead to hair loss?
4.
If hormonal imbalance can cause hair loss, will the hair grow back after the condition is resolved? I hope you can answer each question individually for better understanding.
Thank you!

A Sa, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2008/04/10

Dr. Yao Quan reply Internal Medicine


Dear Mr.
A-Sa,
Hello! Western medicine does not consider masturbation to be a cause of baldness.
However, neither Western nor Traditional Chinese Medicine has conducted large-scale studies on this issue, so strictly speaking, there is no definitive answer to whether masturbation causes baldness.
The term "endocrine disorder" is quite broad, and its symptoms can vary widely, making it difficult to define.
Having a beard on the chin is a normal phenomenon and is not indicative of an endocrine disorder.
Excessive oiliness of the face and hair is also not related to diseases of the endocrine glands as defined by Western medicine, which include (1) the pituitary gland; (2) the adrenal glands; (3) the thyroid gland; (4) the gonads; and (5) the parathyroid glands.

As for whether it is an "endocrine disorder," it depends on how "endocrine disorder" is defined.
In certain discussions within Traditional Chinese Medicine, "endocrine disorder" can encompass a wide range of conditions.
Some endocrine-related diseases can indeed present with hair loss as a symptom.
If hair loss is caused by an endocrine disorder, it may improve after the underlying endocrine condition is treated.
If you suspect you have an endocrine disorder, please seek medical attention from the Department of Metabolism at our hospital.
Sincerely,
Dr.
Chuan Yao
Attending Physician, Internal Medicine
Taoyuan General Hospital

Reply Date: 2008/04/10

More Info


Dear Patient,
Thank you for your questions regarding hair loss and hormonal imbalances. I understand that these issues can be quite concerning, especially when they affect your self-esteem and overall well-being. Let’s address each of your questions one by one.

1. Does frequent masturbation cause hair loss?
There is a common myth that masturbation can lead to hair loss, but there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Hair loss is primarily influenced by genetic factors, hormonal changes, and other health conditions. While excessive stress or anxiety related to sexual activity might contribute to hair loss indirectly, masturbation itself does not cause baldness.

2. What are the symptoms of hormonal imbalances?
Hormonal imbalances can manifest in various ways, depending on which hormones are affected. Common symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, weight gain or loss, mood swings, fatigue, and changes in skin condition, such as increased oiliness or acne. In your case, the presence of excessive facial hair (hirsutism) and oily skin could suggest an imbalance, possibly related to androgens (male hormones) like testosterone. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation if you suspect a hormonal imbalance.

3. Can hormonal imbalances lead to hair loss?
Yes, hormonal imbalances can contribute to hair loss. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, which is characterized by elevated levels of androgens, can lead to thinning hair on the scalp while causing excessive hair growth in other areas. Similarly, thyroid disorders can also lead to hair loss. If you are experiencing symptoms that suggest a hormonal imbalance, it is essential to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment.

4. If hormonal imbalances cause hair loss, will hair grow back once the imbalance is corrected?
In many cases, if the underlying hormonal imbalance is treated effectively, hair growth can resume. However, the timeline for regrowth varies from person to person. Some individuals may notice improvements within a few months, while others may take longer. It’s important to manage expectations and understand that hair regrowth can be a gradual process. In some cases, additional treatments such as topical minoxidil or other medications may be recommended to support hair regrowth.

In addition to addressing these specific questions, I would like to emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals (especially those that support hair health, such as biotin, zinc, and omega-3 fatty acids), and managing stress levels can all contribute positively to your overall health and may help mitigate hair loss.

If you are experiencing significant hair loss or suspect a hormonal imbalance, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a dermatologist or an endocrinologist. They can perform the necessary tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatments tailored to your needs.

Thank you for reaching out with your questions. I hope this information helps clarify your concerns, and I wish you the best in your journey toward understanding and addressing your hair loss.

Best regards,
Doctor Q&A Teams
[Your Title]


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