Diabetes is striking more and more people each day, and most do not realize that thinning hair is an early symptom of the disease. If detected and treated early, complications such as hair loss and other symptoms can be limited. Several factors lead to the onset of diabetes, including but not limited to stress factors. Diabetes can affect every part of the body, and be a major cause of stress, which is one of the most well known causes of hair loss.

The root cause of diabetes is that the diabetic's body cannot produce sufficient insulin to metabolize the carbohydrates in his or her diet. Due to their poor blood circulation and high blood sugar levels, diabetes sufferers often face a wide array of health issues, including skin problems, bruising, and slow recovery from injuries, including delayed hair re-growth. The slow growth of hair can result in significant hair loss, a problem exacerbated by the bacterial and fungal infections that disproportionately affect people who have diabetes.

Type 1 diabetes is classified as an autoimmune disease and often creates small bald patches on the scalp. This condition is called alopecia areata. It is often accompanied with other health issues including dysfunctional thyroid, a skin condition know as vitiligo which is characterized by the loss of pigment on large patches of skin most commonly on the hands, face and genitalia. Pernicious anemia is also a potential issue for people with diabetes. This is a condition in which the lining of the stomach no longer secretes enough enzymes to allow sufficient absorption of the vitamin B12.

Early detection of diabetes is critical. Early treatment can prevent serious problems like blindness, kidney failure, and heart disease. Despite the importance of early detection, patients and even physicians often fail to diagnose diabetes because the early symptoms are easliy to ignore. However, with commitment from the patient to manage his or her disease, serious problems can be avoided, and the patient can go on to live a long, healthy life

You may think hair loss is an unavoidable part of aging, but it can also be an early indication of diabetes onset. Take this simple warning sign seriously! Early diagnosis by your physician is an imperative first step toward treatment which can also help avoid further hair loss. Don't let lotions and conditioners take the place of professional evaluation and treatment. Hair loss may be your body's way to telling something serious is happening. Take a look in the mirror and act on what may be the simplest warning sign you'll get.