Thyroid and Hair Loss

The thyroid gland, which is located in the neck, secretes hormones necessary for growth and proper metabolism.

The gland plays an important role in the growth and mental development of both the fetus and child. It continues to play a strong role in heart rate and weight during adulthood.

Metabolic disorders occur when the thyroid secretes too little or too much hormone. This can often produce hair loss.

It is interesting to note that diseases related to the thyroid are more common in women than in men. This is probably because thyroid disease is often autoimmune (antibody mediated) and most autoimmune conditions are more common in women.

The double-lobed thyroid gland creates two forms of thyroid hormone: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).

T4 is the more abundant hormone produced though the body converts T4 into T3, a more potent hormone. In general, thyroid hormones influence growth and metabolism.

Thyroid and Hair loss