Hair loss is a common problem that is often experienced by many people. This can be caused by various factors such as an unhealthy lifestyle, stress, poor diet, or side effects from using chemical products on the hair. However, uncontrolled hair loss can also be a sign of a more serious health problem, one of which is lupus.
Lupus, or better known as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), is a chronic autoimmune disease that can affect various organs of the body, including the skin, joints, kidneys, and other organs. Chronic autoimmune is a condition in which the body's antibodies cannot function normally and instead attack healthy body tissues and cells. This autoimmune disease is known as the "disease of a thousand faces" because it is difficult to detect and causes different symptoms from one patient to another. One of the symptoms often associated with lupus is abnormal hair loss, also known as alopecia.
Alopecia is a medical condition characterized by loss of hair on the scalp or other parts of the body. In the case of lupus, alopecia can be one of the early signs or symptoms that accompany this disease. Hair loss due to lupus usually occurs in large quantities and tends to occur evenly across the scalp, and this loss process will occur gradually. Even in some situations, hair loss can also occur on the eyebrows and eyelashes.
Early detection of lupus is not enough just to see the symptoms of hair loss, but also requires an examination to observe other symptoms that arise. If you experience hair loss without being accompanied by other symptoms of lupus, then you don't need to worry. Conversely, if you experience hair loss accompanied by other lupus symptoms, you need to be vigilant. The following are other symptoms that can occur if you have lupus:
- Excessive fatigue
- Rashes on the skin
- Experiencing joint pain
- Sun sensitivity
- Anemia
- Prolonged fever
Treatment of Hair Loss in Lupus
If you are detected to have lupus and want to treat excessive hair loss, treatment will be given according to the severity of your lupus and the symptoms you are experiencing. Here are some steps that can help overcome hair loss in people with lupus:
- Consult a doctor
It is important to consult a doctor in managing lupus in order to get an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. - Medical treatment
The doctor may prescribe certain drugs to control the overall symptoms of lupus. However, the use of these drugs must be under close supervision by a doctor, considering the side effects that may arise. - Scalp care
Use a gentle shampoo and avoid products that contain harsh chemicals that can irritate the scalp. It is also important to keep the scalp clean and keep the hair moist by using the appropriate conditioner. - Avoid overheating
Use a hair dryer on low heat or let your hair dry naturally. Avoid using flat irons or hair straighteners which can cause hair damage. Furthermore, also avoid excessive exposure to sunlight because it can trigger discoid lesions and lupus flares. You can use head protection and sunscreen. - Balanced nutrition
Eat healthy foods that are rich in nutrients, including protein, vitamins and minerals. Proper intake can help strengthen hair and maintain healthy scalp. - Avoid stress
Stress can make lupus symptoms worse, including hair loss. Manage your stress by exercising, meditating, or taking up a fun hobby.
It is important to remember that the treatment of hair loss in lupus will vary for each individual. Always consult your doctor or the medical team that treats you for advice that suits your condition.
Article written by dr. Ryan Ardian Saputra, Sp.PD (Internal Medicine Specialist at EMC Alam Sutera Hospital).