I've had a bad hair day for about five years now, or has it been more like ten? Regardless of how long, the fact of the matter is that my hair is noticeably thinner and I'm not liking it.
Lupus requires my taking a cocktail of medications that include Methotrexate, Plaquenil along with Prednisone and cortisone injections on and off for as long as I can remember. Those combined with the reality that I'm in full blown menopause and my stress level has been through the roof with the sad passing of my step-father 4 months ago, and, well, it's clear my hair is paying the price.
For the record, I'm 53 years old with dark brown hair but do not color my hair yet-- Because I only have 17 gray hairs, and yes, I've counted them. Despite my older and younger sisters all requiring the assistance of Miss Clairol, I'm still far from the monthly hair color ritual (knock wood). So, that's not contributing in any way to my hair falling out. Phew.
It is my understanding that on average a person loses 50-100 hairs per day. I'm waaaay past that level so my Rheumatologist and I discussed the state of affairs-- Overall, my lupus symptoms (fatigue, joint swelling, shortness of breath) are cutting me a break in the past several weeks except for the alarming amount of hair on my pillow, in the sink and on my brush. I prefer not to rock the boat by changing any of my meds so a more natural approach was my chief topic of conversation.
Biotin, specifically Vitamin B7, was the suggestion. I stopped at the pharmacy on my way home and asked the Pharmacist which brand was best and of course he recommended the store's brand. I bought a bottle and started taking one small table a day.
Three weeks later I can't say I actually see a difference in my hair.... yet-- But I'm hoping I will. I have, however, seen a significant improvement in my finger nails-- They're growing like crazy and are stronger too.
Until next time...
Joanna J. aka Lemon-Aid
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