Hair loss may occur in people with ulcerative colitis (UC). This may be due to various factors, such as the condition, medication side effects, stress, or vitamin deficiencies.
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a form of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). It causes ulcers on the colon lining, producing mucus and bleeding. This triggers symptoms such as diarrhea, abdominal pain, and blood in stool.
Some people with UC may experience hair loss, which may sometimes be a direct result of the condition itself. A variety of things may trigger it, including:
- stress from managing the condition
- issues with absorbing nutrition due to the condition
- nutritional deficiencies
However, several factors could contribute to hair loss in people with UC.
What is ulcerative colitis?
Ulcerative colitis (UC) is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes ulcers on the colon lining with symptoms such as bleeding, mucus, pain, and diarrhea.
IBD encompasses various conditions resulting from inflammation from the mouth to the anus, especially affecting the small intensive and colon. Symptoms can include:
- blood and mucus in the stool
- stomach pain
- losing weight without trying
- fatigue
- chronic diarrhea
There are several ways UC could directly or indirectly lead to hair loss.
Immune system response
IBD is an autoimmune condition. It occurs when the immune system attacks functioning cells in the intestine. Sometimes, though, this autoimmune activity may affect other body parts.
Researchers from 2021 reported that alopecia areata, a type of immune-mediated hair loss, may develop in people with IBD. The researchers suggest that both conditions share a similar genetic pathway, possibly leading to a person developing both.
Side effects of medication
The Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation lists hair loss as mesalamine and methotrexate’s side effects. Giving folic acid alongside methotrexate may prevent this.
Doctors will monitor all possible side effects of medications during UC treatment.
Stress response
Many people with IBD experience anxiety and stress as a result of the distress caused by the diagnosis or condition.
Sometimes, stress
Vitamin deficiencies
UC can affect the body’s ability to digest food and absorb the nutrients. This can lead to vitamin deficiencies, malnutrition, or weight loss. Any of these factors could lead to hair loss.
Anecdotally, people report that hair loss in those with UC tends to be temporary. Hair may begin growing back once a person addresses any underlying causes, such as stress, nutrition, or finding UC treatments that work for them.
However, the outlook may be different if a person has alopecia areata. There is
Treatment for UC-related hair loss may vary depending on the cause, severity, and preferences. Some people choose not to treat hair loss, while others find this symptom distressing.
Those who want to treat their hair loss may be able to work with a doctor to find the potential cause and begin addressing it. This could involve:
- beginning or adjusting medications for UC
- testing for nutritional deficiencies and trying dietary changes or supplements
- getting support for stress, anxiety, or depression
Some people may find that their hair begins growing back over time. For others, doctors may suggest specific hair loss treatments, such as:
- topical minoxidil, which is available over the counter
- laser therapy
- microneedling
- finasteride or spironolactone (Aldactone) medications
Limited research exists on how these hair loss treatments affect people with UC specifically. People must consult a doctor before trialing any of them.
If a person has vitamin or mineral deficiencies, taking supplements may help. Vitamins that specifically help with hair loss include:
Evidence supporting the supplementation of other nutrients has more mixed results or is not high-quality. More research with larger numbers of participants is necessary.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate dietary supplements like medications. For this reason, people should consult a doctor before trying supplements and choose only high quality products that a third party has tested for safety.
People who have difficulty absorbing nutrients in the digestive tract may benefit from supplements that absorb in the mouth, such as sprays, sublingual tablets, or injections.
Hair loss can be upsetting for some and may affect a person’s self-esteem. Living with UC as a chronic condition can also be challenging. People who feel anxious or alone in this may benefit from finding support groups and other resources to aid their mental health.
Some places to look include:
- the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, which offers nationwide support groups for people with IBD
- the American Hair Loss Association, which provides support for those who have experienced hair loss
- Girls with Guts, which supports women and girls with IBD
Find more UC support groups or learn more about IBD from our dedicated hub.
To an extent, people may be able to slow or reduce hair loss by caring for their hair. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends:
- using gentle shampoo and conditioner
- wrapping the hair to soak up excess water rather than rubbing
- avoiding hot-oil treatments
- stopping any treatments that color, perm, or straighten the hair
- after washing, gently combing the hair as it starts to dry
- using blow dryers on the lowest setting for the shortest amount of time or letting the hair air dry
- limiting the use of heat styling tools, such as flat irons
- avoiding styles that are tight or pull on the hair
- getting enough calories each day
- quitting smoking, if relevant
Is hair loss common with ulcerative colitis?
Many people with UC report hair loss. This may be due to various reasons, including stress from managing the condition, nutritional deficiencies, and medication side effects.
What is the body lacking when you have hair loss?
The body may lack key vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, E, C, and D, which can cause hair loss. This is especially true with UC, as the body may have issues absorbing them from foods.
Some people with UC may experience hair loss. This may be due to autoimmunity or an indirect result of UC’s effects. Stress, nutritional deficiencies, or medication side effects could all play a role.
UC-related hair loss is temporary in some people and gets better with treatment. In others, it may result from another autoimmune condition known as alopecia areata. This condition has no cure, but treatments do exist to help the hair grow back.
If possible, people should speak with their doctor to understand what is causing their hair loss and the treatment options available.
Support groups are also available for people with UC and hair loss to manage living with these conditions.
