RADIATION AND HAIR LOSS
Radiation therapy is a common treatment for various types of cancer, including breast cancer, prostate cancer, and lymphoma. Although radiation therapy can be effective in treating cancer, it can cause side effects, including hair loss.
Radiation works by damaging the DNA of cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and growing. However, radiation also damages healthy cells in the body, including hair follicles, which can lead to hair loss.
The extent of hair loss depends on the dose of radiation and the area of the body that is being treated. For example, radiation to the head and neck area can cause complete hair loss, including eyelashes and eyebrows. Radiation to the lower part of the body, such as the pelvic area, may cause hair loss in the pubic area.
Radiation-induced by hair loss
Radiation-induced hair loss usually begins 2-3 weeks after the start of treatment and can continue to worsen during the course of treatment. Hair loss can also continue for several weeks after treatment has ended. In most cases, hair will regrow once the treatment is complete, although it may take several months.
Radiation-induced hair loss can be temporary or permanent, depending on the dose of radiation and the area of the body being treated. Hair loss is more likely to be permanent if high doses of radiation are used or if the radiation is delivered to the scalp.
It is important to note that not all cancer treatments cause hair loss. Chemotherapy, for example, is more commonly associated with hair loss than radiation therapy. However, some chemotherapy drugs can also cause hair loss, and the severity and extent of hair loss depend on the dose and duration of treatment.
In conclusion, radiation therapy can cause hair loss by damaging hair follicles. The severity and extent of hair loss depend on the dose of radiation and the area of the body being treated. Although hair loss can be distressing, it is usually temporary, and hair will regrow once the treatment is complete.
If you are worried about the way your hair has been falling out, contact us at DHI Panama, you can have a free online consultation through WhatsApp 6349-5550; by filling out our contact form or writing to the chat on the website.
