I Have Rheumatoid Arthritis and Lupis — And They’re Taking Their Toll on My Hair

I have always had very thick and long hair. However 15 years ago I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis and 4 years ago with Lupus. The medications, rashes and the progression of the diseases has taken their toll on my body and my hair. Each time I comb my hair it sheds heavily. I try to limit the amount of heat I put into my hair, and my beautician deep conditions it every two weeks as well as lengthening the time between relaxers. Last visit, we discussed a small amount of weave to thicken it up because you can now see scalp.

I already see a Dermatologist for Lupus related skin problems. It seems when she corrects a skin problem, my hair benefits. However, when the skin problems reoccur so do the hair problems. Do you have any suggestions to help make my hair stronger?

I really can’t offer much help here. In general, if you treat the cause of hair loss, such as your lupis and RA, the hair will grow back. Treating the underlying condition will treat the hair loss.