Hair Cortisol Is a Potential Indicator of Adrenal Insufficiency in Individuals with Sickle Cell Disease

A 36-year-old man with androgenetic alopecia suspects copper and zinc deficiencies may be accelerating hair loss and is supplementing copper to address this. He is also monitoring blood sugar levels due to previous prediabetes concerns and plans to test for insulin resistance.

Low ferritin levels may contribute to hair loss, and raising ferritin above 40 or 70 ng/mL might help with hair regrowth. Some users also consider zinc deficiency and absorption issues as potential factors.

The user is experiencing significant hair shedding and suspects it may be due to low serum ferritin levels rather than worsening androgenetic alopecia. They have resumed iron supplementation and are seeking additional solutions to address the shedding.

The conversation discusses personal experiences with hair loss and highlights the potential impact of anemia and nutrient deficiencies on hair health. Treatments mentioned include changing shampoo/conditioner, taking MSM, collagen, hyaluronic acid, astaxanthin, B12, folate, and bovine blood capsules.

Dutasteride may affect testosterone levels, leading to high ferritin and iron levels, which can cause hair loss. High ferritin might be linked to past heavy drinking or hemochromatosis.

Low iron and ferritin levels can contribute to hair shedding, and low ferritin can reduce the effectiveness of finasteride. Supplementing iron and vitamin D can help improve hair growth and overall health.