Does Typhoid Cause Hair Loss?
September 2, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, hair loss can be a possible side effect or symptom associated with typhoid fever, but it’s not a common or typical symptom of the disease. Typhoid fever is a bacterial infection caused by Salmonella typhi bacteria. It primarily affects the gastrointestinal system and can lead to symptoms such as high fever, abdominal pain, diarrhea or constipation, headache, and fatigue.
While hair loss is not a direct result of the infection itself, there are a few ways in which typhoid fever could potentially contribute to hair loss:
- Physical Stress: Typhoid fever can be physically taxing on the body. The immune response to the infection, as well as the general stress the illness places on the body’s systems, can lead to temporary hair shedding known as telogen effluvium. This type of hair loss is usually reversible and occurs a few months after the stressful event.
- Nutritional Deficiencies: During an illness like typhoid fever, there might be a disruption in nutrient intake and absorption due to reduced appetite and gastrointestinal symptoms. Nutrient deficiencies, particularly deficiencies in vitamins and minerals important for hair health (such as iron, zinc, and certain B vitamins), can lead to hair thinning and shedding.
- Medications: In some cases, medications used to treat typhoid fever could potentially have side effects that affect hair health.
It’s important to note that while hair loss can be a possible consequence of the physiological stress caused by severe illness, including typhoid fever, it’s not a primary symptom of the disease. If you’re experiencing significant hair loss or have concerns about your hair health, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your condition, assess any underlying causes, and recommend appropriate treatments or interventions if necessary.