Well, I did name this blog Losing It, didn’t I?
The thing is, I just didn’t know all that I would be losing at the time I started writing.
Weight, yes. And I’m still losing, down over ten pounds now. But years ago, when I first started blogging, I just didn’t expect to also be losing my marriage, my sanity, my health, and, perhaps most distressingly, my hair.
Because yes: along with anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome and insomnia, I have been diagnosed with alopecia areata.
Indeed, that is a loonie-sized bald spot in the middle of the top of my head. Luckily, I part my hair on the left and I have lots of hair (well, slightly less than I used to, clearly) so it’s not obvious in my day-to-day life.
Apparently, heredity may be a factor in the development of alopecia areata, and environmental triggers such as a pathogen or emotional stress may also contribute. Me? I’m voting for the emotional stress.
It’s amazing, really, the way the story of our inner lives can be written so clearly on our bodies, even when we don’t fully understand our own story all that well ourselves. Because honestly? When I discovered that bald spot I was more frightened and shocked than I would ever have guessed. I’ve never been particularly vain (I thought), and it’s not like I ever thought I had this awesome head of hair (it’s straight, mousy, fine and flat. Read: boring) but going bald? That image upset me. Deeply.
So for now, I cling to my doctor’s promise that none of her patients have ever lost all their hair, and that, in fact, all of them have seen it regrow once the source of the emotional stress has been eliminated.
Well, I cling to that hope and a glass of red wine, really.
My sister has this and it is devastating. It is always worse when she is stressed or sick. She has been to many dermatologists and has had injections to help. I strongly recommend you see a naturopath to get some serious advice on supplements to boost your immune system particularly during stressful times (like always I guess…). I read somewhere about how this is caused when your system “attacks” itself and kills your own hair follicles. If you boost your immunity you will be stronger.
Good luck.
ugh Kath – poor you! I love a crap load of hair due to stress and I have heard that people lose patches with this – but it has indeed grown back!!! Hang in there!
x
Hang in there, things will get better!!! Focus on the things you do have going for you hun….and congrats on the 10lbs!! That is awesome!
Kath, you continue to amaze me with your strength and honesty; something I have always felt when reading your posts. Please know that there is a community of people out there who support you and send good vibes your way. Jen is right, you will get through this, even though I am sure that seems that each day brings a new sense that such a thing is impossible. You have the gift of your incredible sisters, and the memories of such a strong mother who clearly passed that strength to her awesome daughters.
Hi there Kath,
Just found your blog. What is odd is that this just happened to me! I too, just found a bald spot on my head (I’m 42) and my doc said the same thing. SO weird.
Anyway, thank you for sharing and looking forward to reading more. I vote stress (at least for my case) I do think stress can do more damage than anything.
All best,
Kel
I’ve had times when I’ve lost gobs of hair, too, and my hairdresser agrees with your assessment – first thing she asked when that came up was what had me so stressed.
Oh, what a rough go you’ve had. I’m sorry you’re in the midst of so much but I believe you’re on a path back to yourself (and your hair, too!). Traveling mercies to you.
Sounds like a stressful time for you, so hairloss *can* sometimes appear. I have a different – though equally as frustrating – type of hairloss and made it my mission to learn as much about it (and possible correctives) as possible. feel free to get email me, it would be my pleasure to help you out. I have some great resources/doctors etc that might help!!
Oh, Kath….you sure have been through a lot. It is amazing how “our inner lives can be written on our bodies”, (you write so beautifully), but it’s also amazing our resilient our inner and outer selves can be. I hope you’re bouncing back to soon (with bouncy healthy hair and a springier step in your stride).
Kath, you hang in there. I’ll bet it IS all due to emotional stress, and your hair will be back as soon as this traumatic time has subsided a bit.
And down over ten pounds?? Wooooot-woooot!! You can do it, lady!! Sending ou love and hugs and wine. xoxoxox
Take care of yourself, Kath. Whatever you need, just ask. You will get through this with a new look on life and a full head of hair! xo