When you notice handfuls of hair in your brush or shower drain, it’s not just bad luck—it could be telogen effluvium, a temporary hair shedding condition triggered by physical or emotional stress. Also known as stress-induced hair loss, it happens when too many hair follicles shift into the resting phase at once, leading to noticeable thinning. Unlike permanent balding, telogen effluvium doesn’t destroy follicles—it just pauses growth, and hair usually comes back. This isn’t rare. Studies show up to 50% of women experience it after childbirth, surgery, or major illness, and men face it too after severe stress or rapid weight loss.
What triggers it? It’s rarely one thing. nutritional deficiencies, low iron, vitamin D, or protein intake are common culprits. So are hormonal shifts, like those after stopping birth control or during menopause. Even a high fever, intense emotional trauma, or starting a new medication can flip the switch. The key? It’s almost always a shock to the system. Hair loss shows up 2 to 4 months after the event, which is why people often don’t connect the dots.
Recovery isn’t about miracle creams or expensive serums. It’s about fixing the root cause. If you’re low on iron, supplements help. If stress is the trigger, sleep and recovery matter more than any shampoo. Most people see regrowth within 6 to 9 months once the stressor is gone. But if shedding keeps going past a year, it’s time to check for other issues like thyroid problems or autoimmune conditions. The posts below cover real cases—how people figured out what caused their hair loss, what they tried (and what didn’t work), and how they got their hair back. You’ll find practical advice on blood tests, diet tweaks, and when to stop worrying and start healing.
Learn why certain drugs cause hair loss, how to spot it early, and practical steps-from stopping meds to proven treatments-so you can regain confidence.
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