Hair Loss & Later Period??

[GenevaJA]

I was prescribed Ketoconazole 2% Shampoo and Fluocinonide Topical Solution USP 0.05% for my unexplained hair loss by a Dermatologist a month ago and told to use both every other day. I am African American so washing my hair every day is a very bad idea because it dries out so fast so I decided to use the shampoo every 4-5 days and the solution every other day. I am wondering if my late period has anything to do with the use of these products. I have not had sex in 5 months and have had consistent menstrual periods up until now. I have recently stopped using these products and my hair has started falling out again, I am also wondering what could my problem possibly be if my hair only doesn't fall out while on these steroids?

[mkh9]

Hi GenevaJA,
Yes you should mention to your dermatologist that you had success for a while with the ketoconizole and fluconizole treatments but that it came back. As for the PCOS, I don't know anything about this problem or how to prevent hair loss. Have you been to an endocrinologist for it? Did you tell the dermatologist that you have PCOS too? I am not sure if they can treat that too since it is a hormone inbalance.
take care,
mkh9

[GenevaJA]

I forgot to add I was diagnosed back in 2007 with PCOS and I think this may have a lot to do with my hair loss. Is it a good idea to let my dermatologist know about this because what if he takes me off of Fluocinonide even though it has been working? Also, what kind of medication can I take to manage my hair loss from PCOS

[mkh9]

Hi GenevaJA,
It sounds like you have Tinea capitus, which is a fungus called a dermatophyte that infects hair skin and nails. Some of these dermatophytes infect hair (and scalp) and can get into the hair shaft and make hair fall out. I would go back to the dermatologist or call them if you can. Apparently, the fungus hasn't gone away and/or has come back. It would be good to find the source of the problem but the two antibiotics (not steroid) the doctor gave you should do a good job killing the fungus . It takes a long time to kill fungi. I am on an antifungal for my toe nail for 3 months. It can still come back. So, I hope this helps you understand what is going on. Good luck.
mkh9