Ayurvedic Name: Khalitya
Description:
Khalitya is hair loss or baldness. Ayurveda attributes it to an imbalance in Pitta and Vata doshas, which weakens hair follicles and leads to hair fall. Excessive heat in the body, poor digestion, and stress contribute to this condition. Ayurvedic remedies include cooling herbs like amla, bhringraj, and neem, along with head massages using medicated oils to strengthen the scalp and promote hair growth.
Signs & Symptoms:
- Mutraghata (Urinary Retention): Difficulty in passing urine despite the urge.
- Vata Dosa: Vāta derangement in the urinary system leads to difficulty in urination.
- Kapha Dosa: Kapha excess may cause sluggishness or obstruction in the urinary system.
- Ama: Toxins and impurities in the body can contribute to retention and slow flow.
Diagnosis:
Scalp Biopsy or Blood Test for Thyroid Levels
Risk Factors:
- Dietary Factors: Excessive consumption of spicy or oily foods, alcohol, and tobacco can lead to the formation of excessive heat (pitta) in the body, contributing to hair loss. A diet lacking in essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and protein can weaken hair follicles and lead to thinning or hair fall. Poor hydration can also contribute to dry and brittle hair.
- Lifestyle Factors: High levels of stress and anxiety can contribute to hormonal imbalances, which are often linked to hair fall. Irregular sleep patterns and sedentary habits can further aggravate Khalitya by affecting blood circulation and the body’s ability to nourish hair follicles.
Complications:
- Hair Loss (Khalitya): Thinning or shedding of hair due to underlying imbalances in the body or hormonal fluctuations.
- Scalp Irritation (Vata Dushti): Dryness and irritation on the scalp caused by Vata imbalance, leading to hair fall.
- Dandruff (Kapha Dushti): Excessive dryness or oily scalp leading to flaky skin or dandruff.
Epidemeology:
Khalitya (Hair Loss) is commonly seen in individuals experiencing high levels of stress, hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies. The incidence is high in both men and women, with men more likely to experience male-pattern baldness, while women may suffer from hair thinning. Poor scalp hygiene, medical conditions like thyroid disorders, and certain medications can also increase the risk of hair loss.