TLDR Sudden hair loss might be a symptom of COVID-19.
A 51-year-old woman with hypothyroidism was admitted to the hospital due to postoperative complications. She tested positive for COVID-19 but showed no signs of respiratory failure. However, on the third day of hospitalization, she experienced severe hair loss overnight, along with an intense headache. This case suggests that sudden hair loss could be a symptom or complication of COVID-19, highlighting the need for further investigation and management of this potential symptom.
22 citations,
October 2021 in “Dermatologic Therapy” COVID-19 may cause temporary hair loss in some people.
31 citations,
May 2020 in “Dermatologic Therapy” Quarantine stress likely worsened hair loss in women, but video consultations helped manage their condition and reduce anxiety.
176 citations,
May 2020 in “Dermatologic Therapy” COVID-19 can cause different skin symptoms that may help with early diagnosis and show how severe the disease is.
October 2023 in “Clinical medicine and medical research” Thyroid function may influence hair loss after COVID-19.
2 citations,
September 2022 in “Cureus” Almost half of COVID-19 patients in Makkah, Saudi Arabia experienced increased hair loss, especially women and those with chronic diseases.
November 2022 in “Journal of clinical images and medical case reports” COVID-19 can cause hair loss in both severe and mild cases, often affecting women.
September 2023 in “Irish Journal of Medical Science (1971 -)” About 61% of women who had COVID-19 experienced hair loss afterward.
December 2023 in “Journal of family medicine and primary care” Many people in Saudi Arabia experienced hair loss after COVID-19, especially women, those treated with antivirals, and those with a history of hair shedding.
