Understanding Hypopituitarism and How It Causes Hair Loss

June 6, 2016 by Dermatology Associates

Blog, Hair Loss, Hair Loss Treatment

New England Center for Hair Restoration believes in offering custom-tailored treatment to patients at our practice. People in and around the greater Boston area have placed their trust in us because they know our focus is on optimal hair restoration results that help people look great and feel confident. We offer the latest in hair loss treatment, including surgical and non-surgical methods. The right treatment for each patient often depends on the cause of their hair loss. With than in mind, we want to consider hypopituitarism, a type of hair loss that while uncommon can have a major impact on your appearance as well as your general sense of well-being.

About Hypopituitarism

Hypopituitarism refers to a condition in which the pituitary gland does not secrete enough of its hormones. This may mean a deficiency of one of the eight growth hormones or multiple hormones. (Lack of most or all hormones from the pituitary gland is referred to as panhypopituitarism.) Hypopituitarism is rare and can affect both men and women.

What Causes Hypopituitarism?

There are a wide range of causes of hypopituitarism. Some of the most common causes include:

• Head or brain injuries
• Brain tumors
• Stroke
• Infections affecting the brain
• Blood loss during childbirth
• Pituitary damage during childbirth
• Radiation exposure
• Poisoning/venom
• Genetic defects
• Tuberculosis
• Infiltrative diseases

Additional Signs and Side Effects of Hypopituitarism

In addition to balding and thinning hair, other signs and symptoms of hypopituitarism include the following:

• Shedding of body hair
• Decreased facial hair
• Reduced weight
• Fatigue and low energy
• Fertility problems
• Anemia
• Changes in menstrual pattern
• Decreased libido
• Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures
• Hot flashes
• Puffiness of the face

If you notice hair loss as well as any of the above symptoms, be sure to discuss these issues with your physician so you can determine if you suffer from hypopituitarism or another sort of health issue.

Treating Hypopituitarism

When it comes to treating hypopituitarism, it’s important that the underlying cause of the condition be addressed first. This can be determined as part of the testing and diagnosis process with your physician and other medical specialists. As for the hormone deficiencies caused by hypopituitarism, the most common treatment is hormone replacement therapy. A variety of drugs may be prescribed for these matters, and the ideal medications will need to be tailored specifically to the needs of the patient.

Hair Restoration and Hypopituitarism: Is It Necessary?

In many cases, the answer is no. For the most part, hair regrowth will resume once the hormone deficiency and underlying causes of the problem are addressed. If there is persistent or pervasive hair loss following treatment for hypopituitarism, we can go over some of your options for care in greater detail. Both non-surgical and surgical options can be discussed depending on your situation and your goals.

Contact New England Center for Hair Restoration

To learn more about various issues related to balding and hair loss, be sure to contact our team of hair restoration specialists today. The team at New England Center for Hair Restoration will work with you and help you have a fuller and healthier head of hair. COVID-19 update we are offering an initial hair transplant for the incredible price of $6,000! 3rd party financing is available with monthly payments as low as $119 per month.  Call 800-313-HAIR or click here to learn more.