Is Mold To Blame For Your Hair Loss?

There are several different causes of hair loss that are well known, such as genetics, hormonal changes and certain medical conditions, but there are also some lesser-known origins and one of them, believe it or not, is mold. Let’s have a look at how exactly hair loss can be caused by mold and what can be done to prevent and treat it. 

How can mold cause hair loss?

If someone is allergic to mold, their immune system assumes that the mold particles that enter the person’s body are harmful. They can enter the body by being inhaled, being touched or even by being consumed. Even though they’re actually harmless, the immune system works to release numerous chemicals, including one called histamine, into the bloodstream to fight off the ‘harmful’ particles. Histamine causes various symptoms of allergic reactions, such as itching, runny nose and watery eyes. Another thing histamine does is it causes inflammation, which reduces the amount of blood that reaches the hair follicles. This can result in hairs not receiving as much blood as they need and can lead to them eventually falling out all over your body, not just on your head. The longer you’re exposed to mold, the more you may experience hair loss. 

What can be done to prevent it?

It goes without saying that the best way to fight against this is to ensure your home is completely free from mold. Have a professional do a thorough inspection and if mold is found, be sure to have it removed as soon as possible. Mold growth can be a nuisance – not only can it cause health problems and lead to hair loss, it may even cause structural damage to your home, especially if it’s growing in your basement. 

What can be done to treat it?

The good news is that hair loss caused by mold can be treated and any hair that is lost can be regrown, though of course it may take some time. You should consult your doctor about your hair loss and tell him/her all the symptoms you’re experiencing, as there could be other factors contributing to the condition. You might even be told that your hair loss isn’t caused by mold at all – either way, it’s always best to be on the safe side and get professional advice. 

Mold is irksome, problematic and annoying. Hair loss is yet another thing it can cause and is yet another reason why it’s important to get mold detected and dealt with as soon as possible.