Does TB Cause Hair Loss?
October 26, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Tuberculosis (TB) itself does not directly cause hair loss. Hair loss, or alopecia, is typically not a direct symptom of TB. However, some factors related to TB or its treatment could potentially lead to hair loss in some individuals:
- Medications: Medications used to treat TB, such as isoniazid or ethambutol, can have side effects, including hair loss. This side effect is relatively rare, and not everyone who takes these medications will experience it. If you are concerned about hair loss as a side effect of your TB medication, you should discuss it with your healthcare provider.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: TB can lead to weight loss and malnutrition, which can indirectly contribute to hair loss. When the body is undernourished, it may prioritize the allocation of nutrients to vital organs over hair, resulting in hair thinning or loss.
- Stress and Illness: The stress and strain of dealing with a serious illness like TB can sometimes lead to temporary hair loss. This type of hair loss is often referred to as telogen effluvium and can be triggered by a variety of factors, including physical or emotional stress.
It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you are experiencing hair loss while being treated for TB or if you have concerns about the medications you are taking. They can assess your specific situation and provide guidance on how to manage or address any hair loss that may be occurring. In most cases, once the TB infection is treated and nutritional status improves, any hair loss that occurred as a result of the illness or its treatment should be temporary and reversible.