Updated July 5 2024
One of the very few things that makes you feel like you since your diagnose of kidney disease is getting your hair and nails done. It is the one time you feel special. Now you are realizing some changes in the color of your nails and also some hair loss. Everything seemed ok until you started dialysis. Kidney failure does not have to take over.
There are many issues that arise from kidney failure and even acute kidney issue weight loss skin diseases heart failure to name a few but this article will focus on your hair and your nails and the reason that may cause these issues.
Chronic kidney disease and hair loss.
Even as a person who ages the break down and loss of hair happen. For those who have renal failure and renal disease especially those who are using hemodialysis as treatment have reported more frequent hair loss.
Veronica's Journey: Embracing Beauty Amidst Kidney Disease
Veronica, a vibrant and spirited woman in her early 40s, always found solace in her beauty rituals. Her weekly trips to the salon for a fresh hairdo and nail treatment were her special moments of self-care, a time to feel pampered and beautiful. However, after being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease, these cherished routines began to change. She started noticing her hair thinning and her nails becoming brittle and discolored, especially after she began dialysis. Despite these changes, Veronica's resolve remained unshaken. She consulted her medical team, adjusted her diet, and found new ways to care for herself. Through her journey, Veronica learned that while kidney disease may alter some aspects of her life, it could never take away her spirit and determination to feel her best.
Causes of hair loss in kidney patients.
There can be many reasons for hair loss in kidney patients. The first we think of is our genetic makeup. In some cases that caused your kidney disease could be what is also causing your hair loss.
But in many other cases the cause of your hair loss can be due to some of the medications that you are taking, medications can cause side effects such as hair loss. Other reasons could be malnutrition using your labs as a guide line and speaking with your doctor including your dietitian hair loss due to malnutrition can be slowed or corrected.
Along with malnutrition your medical team will look at vitamin deficiencies that could be causing you to lose your hair.
Dialysis and Hair loss.
Those that are hemodialysis patients tend to have lower levels of red blood cells also lower levels of iron causing a iron deficiency. CKD patients with a quick loss of kidney function tend to report hair thinning or hair loss.
To battle these issues dialysis patients will have blood drawn monthly and will be given medications and vitamin supplements to help correct these levels.
Can I dye my hair if I have Kidney Disease?
Although there is no hard evidence the dye can worsen or cause kidney disease, it is advised to speak with your medical team before doing so.
If you are suffering from thinning hair or hair loss dying your hair may cause your situation to worsen again it is highly advised to seek direction from your medical team.
Nail abnormalities.
Issues and nail problems are a common occurrence with kidney patients. It is not uncommon for those with a loss of renal function to experience nail disorders such as changes in nail color, thickness, shape or texture.
Abnormal nail changes that we highly recommend telling your doctor would be any yellowing of the nails, lines across the nails that make the nails look more like half nails. Any pitting in the nail or just brittle nails that break very easily.
Diet and changes to hair and nails.
Your diet could also be a factor in the changes in your hair and nails. If your medical team has just transitioned you to the renal diet then the changes can be associated with lower amount of protein in your diet.
With hair and nail being mainly made up of protein these low level can have a adverse effect causing hairless and brittle nails. You will find the recommendation of less protein pre-dialysis with small increase in protein intake when you start dialysis. But it is always advised and implied to seek your medical treatment and advice from a trained professional on your medical team.
FAQ on Hair Loss and Nail Disorders in Kidney Disease
1. Why am I experiencing hair loss after starting dialysis? Hair loss in dialysis patients can be due to several factors including genetic predisposition, side effects of medications, malnutrition, and deficiencies in vitamins and minerals such as iron. Hemodialysis patients often have lower levels of red blood cells and iron, which can contribute to hair thinning and loss.
2. Can I dye my hair if I have kidney disease? While there is no conclusive evidence that hair dye worsens or causes kidney disease, it's advisable to consult with your medical team before dyeing your hair. If you are experiencing hair thinning or loss, dyeing your hair may exacerbate the condition.
3. What kind of nail abnormalities should I be concerned about with kidney disease? Kidney disease can lead to nail changes such as yellowing, lines across the nails, pitting, and brittleness. It's important to report any significant changes in nail color, thickness, shape, or texture to your doctor for further evaluation and guidance.
4. How does diet affect hair and nail health in kidney patients? Diet plays a crucial role in hair and nail health. Kidney patients, especially those on a renal diet, may experience changes due to lower protein intake. Since hair and nails are primarily made of protein, inadequate protein levels can lead to hair loss and brittle nails. Adjustments in protein intake, as advised by your medical team, can help manage these issues.
5. Are hair and nail problems permanent in kidney disease patients? Hair and nail problems in kidney disease patients are often temporary and can be managed with the help of your medical team. Addressing underlying causes such as nutritional deficiencies, medication side effects, and proper dialysis treatment can improve the condition of your hair and nails over time.
6. What can be done to manage hair loss and nail disorders in kidney disease patients? Managing hair loss and nail disorders in kidney disease patients involves a multi-faceted approach. Key steps include addressing nutritional deficiencies through a balanced diet, taking prescribed medications and supplements, and following the advice of your medical team. Regular monitoring of your health, particularly through blood tests, can help detect and correct issues like iron deficiency, which often contributes to hair loss. For nail disorders, maintaining good nail hygiene and avoiding harsh chemicals can help reduce symptoms. Personalized care plans created with your healthcare provider are essential in managing these conditions effectively.
Conclusion
Hair loss and nail issues can lower a patient moral remember they are mostly temporary and with the help of your medical team can be treated. Other issue that may arise for kidney patients is skin changes examples are itchy skin which you can find an article right here on kidney conversations Itchy skin and kidney disease. The kidneys can cause many issues just remember to follow the advice of your medical team to find the best treatments for you.
This blog was written by using human and AI
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