Psoriatic arthritis (PsA), an autoimmune condition affecting joints, tendons, and nails, often appears alongside psoriasis, a skin inflammatory disease. While not a direct symptom, hair loss can occur in individuals with PsA, primarily due to indirect factors like stress or treatment side effects.
The Link Between PsA and Hair Loss
According to Dr. Jennifer E. Yeh of Stanford University School of Medicine, PsA doesn’t cause hair loss directly, but it can create conditions that increase the risk. This happens in three main ways: inflammation from PsA itself, side effects from medications used to treat it, or the higher likelihood of having other autoimmune conditions.
How Stress Plays a Role
PsA significantly impacts emotional well-being, often leading to anxiety, depression, and diminished self-esteem. Chronic stress worsens inflammation and disrupts immune function, intensifying disease activity. This can trigger a temporary form of hair loss called telogen effluvium.
Telogen effluvium forces more hairs into their resting phase, causing them to fall out – sometimes up to 300 strands per day instead of the usual 100. However, hair usually regrows once the underlying stress is managed.
Medication Side Effects
Certain PsA medications, such as methotrexate and leflunomide, are known to cause hair thinning as a side effect. It’s crucial to discuss potential medication adjustments with your doctor if you experience this.
Scalp Psoriasis as a Contributor
If you have scalp psoriasis alongside PsA, medicated shampoos and avoiding scalp irritation can help prevent additional hair loss and promote recovery.
What To Do If You’re Experiencing Hair Loss
If you have psoriatic arthritis and notice significant hair loss, consult your doctor to identify the underlying cause. Managing stress levels and effectively treating PsA can lead to hair regrowth and a healthier scalp.
Effective management of PsA, including stress reduction and appropriate medication adjustments, can help minimize the risk of hair loss and promote regrowth.
Sources:
Cleveland Clinic, Rheumatology and Therapy, American Academy of Dermatology, Arthritis Foundation, and peer-reviewed studies (as referenced in the original article).
