Hair loss and Crohn's Disease - is there a connection

Subject: Hair loss and Crohn's Disease - is there a connection

Forum: The Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases Forum

I am a 49 year old female who was diagnosed with Crohn's disease at the age of 20, following bowel resection surgery.  My second bowel resection surgery occurred at age 45.  I am not on any medication nor have I been since this last surgery.  I have noticed my hair thinning since I was about 43 or 44 years old.  Other people with Crohn's have told me that they have experienced this but also have hair recovery.  I am not so lucky and presently my hair is very thin.  Can you tell me what the connection is and if there is any remedy such as a nutritional supplement, treatment for autoimmune problems, etc.?  My condition, though not severe, is present almost daily with symptoms such as abdominal tenderness, gas and bloating, fairly frequent diarrhea, and some episodes of partial bowel blockage which result in painful "attacks" that last from 8 to 12 hours.  Recently, symptoms have alleviated with change in diet (limited carbohydrates/sugars, ingestion of yogurt, pancreatin, bromeline and other enzymes with meals, and non-prescribed supplements such as NAG (n-acetylglucosamine to reduce inflamation (inflammation)).  Hair loss is traumatic to me.  I would appreciate any information on this topic.
Theresa








Follow Ups:


Re: Hair loss and Crohn's Disease - is there a connection Lisa 5/19/1999
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Re: Hair loss and Crohn's Disease - is there a connection HFHSM.D.-ym 4/26/1999
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