Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss
What Is Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss?
Chemotherapy-induced hair loss is a common and often distressing side effect of many chemotherapy treatments. This type of hair loss is usually temporary and can affect the scalp and other hair-bearing areas of the body. The severity of hair loss can vary from thinning to complete baldness and typically begins within a few weeks of starting chemotherapy.
What Causes Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss?
The primary cause of Chemotherapy-Induced Hair Loss is the nature of the chemotherapy drugs. These drugs target rapidly dividing cells, a characteristic of cancer cells. However, they also affect other rapidly dividing cells in the body, including the hair follicles, leading to hair loss. The extent and duration of hair loss depend on the type and dosage of chemotherapy and individual responses to the treatment.
