Total Hysterectomy and Hair Loss — Using Estroderm Patch and Nizoral

Doctor I am a 51 year old female. I had a total hysterectomy last Oct. My hair has been thinning since. My doctor put me on a 0.05 estroderm patch and shampoo with nizoral shampoo 2 to 3 times weekly. My twin has not had a hysterectomy but has gone through the change and her hair is thinning significantly. What else should I do. As women, we would prefer not to be bald. Unfortunately our grandfathers on both sides were bald, so I am almost certain this is familial. What else should I be doing? This is very disturbing.

I found a good response on DocShop.com which states: “Hair loss may occur in patients who undergo major surgery. About three or four months after major surgery or a serious illness, patients may lose a large amount of hair. This type of hair loss is the result of stress associated with the illness, and the hair loss is often temporary. Hair loss is normal after major surgery, so it is important for patients to speak to their surgeon about this possible side effect before undergoing the surgery. If you would like to know more about hair loss after major surgery and ways to treat it, consult a hair restoration specialist.”

I agree that you need to see a hair specialist. Hormone manipulation can cause hair loss and aging is included. Balding on the male side of the family may not correspond to female hair loss and I would look to the female side of your family (mother, aunts, grandmothers, etc.) for some insight as to what may be in your future.