Hair loss after chemo is probably the most obvious and prevalent chemotherapy side effect. The psychological and physical impact it has on cancer patients can be enormous, as it serves as a reminder of the war they are waging against cancer.
In this blog, we’ll explore the causes of hair loss after chemo, discuss whether radiation can cause hair loss as well, and look at what the process of hair growing back after chemo typically involves.
However, in case you want to know more about can radiation cause hair loss and hair growing back after chemo, get in touch with the World Hair Institute.
Hair Loss After Chemo: Why Does It Happen?
Chemotherapy is meant to destroy rapidly growing cancer cells within the body, but it also destroys other rapidly growing cells, including those found in hair follicles. Therefore, Hair loss after chemo is not unusual, especially with some chemotherapy agents. The degree of hair loss depends on the kind of chemotherapy administered, the dosage, and the body’s response to the therapy.
Can Radiation Cause Hair Loss?
Besides chemotherapy, most cancer patients receive radiation therapy as well. Radiation, which is applied to destroy cancer cells in certain parts of the body, also leads to hair loss. But radiation’s impact on hair growth is generally more localized compared to chemotherapy.
Radiation might lead to loss of hair in the region under treatment. For instance, if a patient is undergoing radiation for the head or neck, the patient will lose hair on those parts. Hair loss is generally temporary, but sometimes, depending on whether the radiation is very intense or for an extended period of time, hair may not grow back on the treated region.
Hair Growing Back After Chemo: What to Expect
Perhaps one of the most eagerly awaited milestones for chemo patients is the moment hair begins to grow back after undergoing chemo. After chemotherapy treatments are completed, the body starts to rebuild itself, and the hair follicles begin regenerating. Hair regrowth is an indication that the body is healing, but expectations must be tempered during this time.
Wrapping Up!
Hair loss subsequent to chemo, whether from chemotherapy or from radiation therapy, is a difficult and emotional consequence of cancer therapy. Keep in mind that hair return after chemo is a process, and with time, many people do come to a place of normalcy and confidence. However, in case you want to know more about can radiation cause hair loss and hair growing back after chemo, get in touch with the World Hair Institute, and get the best services!