Medication and Lifeless Hair
A: It is commonly known among salon, hair care, and medical professionals that certain medications can have an effect on the condition, texture, and volume of your hair. Specific types of blood pressure medications - particularly beta-blockers - have even been shown to be responsible for hair texture changes and certain types of hair thinning or loss.
The Role of Your Thyroid Condition
You should note that one of the classic symptoms of hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid) is limp, dry, and lifeless hair, alongside potential hair shedding. Furthermore, when you first start taking medication for an underactive thyroid, it takes time for your hormone levels to balance out.During this initial adjustment period, temporary changes in hair texture or even mild shedding can occur as your body adapts. It is very possible that there is a combination of factors involved: the underlying thyroid imbalance, your body adapting to the new hormone therapy, and potential side effects from your blood pressure medication.
When to Consult Your Doctor
Given your medical conditions and the medications you are taking, I recommend you speak to your doctor next time you see him or her, or sooner if you begin to see other signs and symptoms, such as significant hair loss. It is very important that you do not stop taking or change the dosage of your high blood pressure or thyroid medications without consulting your doctor first, as both manage vital aspects of your health.I am not qualified to make any diagnoses regarding the potential reactions to your medications, or link any symptoms you may have to your medical conditions. However, by speaking to your doctor - who may want to check your thyroid hormone levels or iron levels - you can work together to find a solution that resolves the root cause of the problem, such as fine-tuning your dosage or trying a different class of blood pressure medication.
Practical Styling and Hair Care Tips
In the meantime, you can do a few things to help you deal with lifeless hair. While home remedies like Witch Hazel or beer are sometimes suggested, they contain alcohols and residues that can dry out hair already compromised by a thyroid condition.Instead, try using a lightweight volumizing or clarifying shampoo to gently remove build-up without stripping natural oils. After washing, towel-dry the hair gently and blow-dry it with your head inverted, or with the hair held away from the scalp using a round brush for extra fullness and volume.
You can also style the hair using gentle roller sets while allowing it to dry, which helps add lasting body and lift to otherwise lifeless hair without the risk of heavy product build-up.
This answer is intended for informational purposes only. For medical advice or a diagnosis, contact a doctor.
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See also:
Low thyroid and hair
Medications and your hair
Can thyroid medicine affect blond hair color?