“Hair loss is God’s way of telling me I’m human.” – Bruce Willis
Battling Hair Loss After Heart Transplant: A Personal Journey
Hair loss can be a challenging and disheartening experience, especially when it accompanies serious health issues such as heart failure. My journey with hair loss began during end-stage heart failure, a condition that led to losing two-thirds of my previously thick hair. This post shares my experience and the strategies I employed to combat hair loss. The encouraging results I’ve seen will hopefully provide insight and hope to those facing similar struggles.
The Culprit: Heart Failure and Hair Loss
Heart failure and the associated stress on the body can significantly impact hair health. Medications and the body’s struggle to prioritise vital functions over hair growth often result in substantial hair loss. My heart failure journey culminated in a heart transplant, during which I experienced significant hair thinning.
My Hair Loss Photos
The photos below show my daily and monthly hair loss respectively. Of course I found this highly distressing and still do as I continue to experience times of hair loss.
A Surprising Solution: Spironolactone
After extensive research, I discovered that Spironolactone, a diuretic commonly prescribed for heart patients, also treats male pattern baldness. This dual functionality piqued my interest, and I discussed the benefits and side effects with my St Vincent’s Hospital Heart Transplant Doctor. To my relief, he prescribed Spironolactone, and within days, the volume of hair loss eased.
However, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects. Spironolactone may cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, particularly affecting Potassium levels. Potassium and Magnesium are essential for heart health. For more detailed information on Spironolactone and its uses, visit WebMD- Aldactone.
Nutritional Support: The Power of Protein and Supplements
Nutritional support plays a crucial role in hair recovery. My dietician emphasised the importance of protein, which is vital for cell renewal and recovery after surgery. Protein also assists hair strength and growth. The dietician provided a guide and prescribed a subsidised supplement, making it affordable at 50% off the retail price. Visit my post: About A Heart Transplant for more details on this protein supplement.
In addition to protein, several vitamins and minerals are essential for hair and skin repair post-surgery:
- Zinc
- Iodine
- Silica
- Vitamins C and D
- Iron
Ask your team or dietician for individualised advice as everyone’s needs are different. The transplant team is amazing.You will most likely find a blood test is ordered regularly to determine possible nutritional deficiencies to allow for early interventions.
For example, it was discovered I was critically low in iron after an iron study blood test. The team were quick to order an iron infusion. This also assisted in reducing my hair loss.
Topical Treatments: Embracing Dermal Therapy
To further support hair regrowth, I turned to Dermal Therapy’s restoring serum and shampoo/conditioner, which contain Redensyl. After researching, I found that Redensyl, derived from seven plant compounds, is a natural alternative to Minoxidil. It promotes hair growth by aiding cell regeneration in hair follicles without the rebound hair loss associated with discontinuing Minoxidil.
For more information on Redensyl versus Minoxidil, you can read this detailed comparison on Scandinavian Biolabs.
Mechanical Protection: Simple Yet Effective
Preventing hair breakage is just as important as stimulating growth. I adopted several mechanical strategies to protect my delicate new hair:
- Using a silk pillowcase to reduce friction. My daughter suggested I get a silk bonnet to wear at night. Have not done so yet. Ill update you if I do.
- Avoiding tight hairstyles like ponytails or buns that stress the fragile hairline. I bought a soft head band to keep the hair off my face while avoiding putting pressure on the hairline.
- Reducing heat exposure to hair, turn the heat setting down on hair styling appliances. I used my hospital stays to embrace air drying my hair.
- Reducing or avoiding hair colouring, particularly harsh bleaching. I stopped dying my hair dark brown all together. I used the time off work spent in hospitals to go gracefully grey. Not particularly my first choice but it was a logical and practical course of action.
RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH
As usual I have done some further research on hair loss and have summarised a number of sources. I hope the following information is additionally helpful.
Understanding Hair Loss: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention
Hair loss is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, impacting many. Understanding the causes, available treatments, and preventive measures is crucial for managing this condition effectively.
Causes
- Genetics: The most common cause of hair loss is androgenetic alopecia, also known as male or female pattern baldness. This hereditary condition is characterized by a predictable pattern of hair thinning.
- Hormonal Changes: Conditions such as pregnancy, childbirth, menopause, and thyroid problems can cause temporary or permanent hair loss.
- Medical Conditions: Diseases like alopecia areata (an autoimmune disorder), scalp infections, and other skin disorders can lead to hair loss.
- Medications: Certain drugs used for cancer, arthritis, depression, heart problems, and high blood pressure can cause hair loss as a side effect.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Lack of essential nutrients such as iron, protein, and vitamins can contribute to hair thinning and loss.
- Stress: Physical or emotional stress can trigger hair loss through conditions such as telogen effluvium, where hair shedding occurs after a stressful event.
Treatments
- Other Potential Medications:
- Finasteride: A prescription oral medication for men that reduces hair loss by inhibiting the hormone responsible for follicle shrinkage.
- Hair Transplant Surgery: A procedure where hair follicles from a part of the body are transplanted to the balding area. This is often used in cases of significant hair loss.
- Laser Therapy: Low-level laser therapy is a newer treatment option that may help to improve hair density.
- Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: Involves injecting platelet-rich plasma from the patient’s own blood into the scalp to stimulate hair growth.
- Natural Remedies: Essential oils, proper scalp care, and dietary supplements can support overall hair health.
Prevention Tips for Hair Loss
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Ensure a balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals that support hair health, such as iron, zinc, and vitamin D.
- Avoid Harsh Hair Treatments: Limit the use of heat styling, chemical treatments, and tight hairstyles that can damage hair and lead to hair loss.
- Manage Stress: Practice stress-reducing techniques such as yoga, meditation, and regular exercise to prevent stress-related hair loss.
- Regular Scalp Care: Keep the scalp clean and healthy to promote a good environment for hair growth.
- Consult a Professional: Early consultation with a dermatologist or trichologist can help diagnose and treat hair loss effectively.
Hair loss can be a challenging condition, but understanding its causes and exploring various treatment and prevention options can help manage and potentially reverse its effects.
References
- Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Hair loss. Retrieved from Mayo Clinic
- American Academy of Dermatology Association. (n.d.). Hair loss: Who gets and causes. Retrieved from AAD
- Healthline. (n.d.). Everything You Need to Know About Hair Loss. Retrieved from Healthline
A Journey of Hope and Regrowth
Only months after my heart transplant, I have witnessed a significant amount of “fuzzy wuzzy” regrowth. While managing this new growth can be challenging, it symbolises recovery and renewal, something I am deeply grateful for.
To anyone facing a similar battle with hair loss: it will get better. With the right combination of medical treatment, nutritional support, and mechanical protection, regrowth is possible. Stay hopeful. Be strong. Be kind to yourself.
As always you are invited to share your experiences and learnings via the form below.
Sending love and light
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