Hair loss / thinning

[Helen212]

Hi everyone,

I’ve just joined this group, apologies if this has already been asked / discussed.

I’m 29 and was diagnosed with RA when I was 16. I take Enbrel injection every 2 weeks. Over the last year or so I’ve noticed my hair thinning and have bald patches. Has anyone else noticed this and can recommend supplements to help?

Thanks 😊

[KittyJ]

Hello and welcome Helen.

Have you seen your GP about this Helen? They’re the best ones to investigate why you are losing your hair and give you treatment.

[mrdiggs]

I've been on Methotrexate for 8 yrs. and have the same problem. I've lost about 2/3 of my hair and have a bald spot plus another area going that way. I take folic acid, tried biotin but didn't do anything for me ,am now trying Viviscal. That won't grow new hair but is supposed to strengthen existing hair. Also taking vitamin D and K2 and starting vitamin A. I'm trying everything and anything. It seems some people have this problem and others may have a mild loss initially but then it stops and all is well..Wish I could give you a solution but am fighting the same problem. If you come up with any solutions would love to hear from you.Good luck and hope you find the answer.

[CarolyneJA in reply to mrdiggs]

Do you take 5 mg folic daily? It gave me back my hair. Methotrexate issue

[mrdiggs in reply to CarolyneJA]

Thanks for the reply. I take 400 mcgs every day. I had been told that was to help with any stomach issues from the Methotrexate.It certainly hasn't helped with hair issue.My hair has been a problem since starting Metho. and that was 8 yrs. ago before that I had a great head of hair and no problems.When the problem first started I had talked with my RA doctor and he said it was the Methotrexate and when I stopped taking it it would grow back in. Well stopping is not a option, will be on this or something else the rest of my life so that certainly wasn't any help . I think most men doctors don't realize how women really feel about this severe kind of hair loss. They can be bald and still fit right in and some even look sexier.LOL-----Unfortunately that doesn't happen to be the case in my situation, have to laugh or I would scream. So as you can see I'm still on the great quest to find a solution. Wish me luck------

[oldtimer]

You will find previous posts on hair thinning (lots of them) if you put hair loss or similar into the search box.

Remember that it takes time from when your hair follicles stop growing to hair fall - around 8-12 weeks, so think back to that time for ideas about associations.

[KarenS1]

Hi there

I have had terrible hair loss since my RA diagnosis and it really affects your confidence. I have tried supplements, shampoos, everything and sadly nothing worked.

I now wear a hair enchancer/ topper and I must say it has made a huge difference and really does help. There are lots on the market but the one I have found the best and most realistic (human hair that can be cut, dyed and styled to suit) is Beautiful Betsy, google them, they really are the best.

Best of luck xx

[crashdoll]

Hi Helen, welcome. It’s definitely worth seeing your GP or rheum to see if you have a vitamin or iron deficiency that may be causing the hair loss. My hair got very thin some years ago and I used an expensive shampoo called nioxin which did help. I know some people take biotin supplements, although I never tried. Hope this is helpful.

[Hidden]

Hi Helen. Was on Methotrexate for 30 plus years and then Enbrel every week for 8 years and still am. No problem with hair loss. You should check with your doctor. It may be something else causing it. Good luck