Is Your Hair Turning Gray Prematurely?

Gray Hair Is A Sign Of Aging

Is your hair turning gray too early? For most of the time gray hair is a sign of one’s maturity. If you’re already in your forties or fifties, seeing that your hair is graying out is normal. It is a part of growing up…err… older.

But some people both men and women (may be more frequent in men) are seeing their hair turning gray even before they reach their 30-year old mark. If you find your hair turning gray early on, should you be worried?

In most cases, the early graying of one’s hair is just due to the normal aging process. When the hair starts turning gray this means that the pigmentation color (melanin) in the hair is dropping in numbers.

At some point, everyone would start having gray hair. If you’re Caucasian younger than 20 years old or African-American below the age of 30, and you start seeing gray hair, this can be called as premature graying of hair.

Can Premature Graying Signify a Disease?

Many people who are experiencing premature graying of hair are worried mostly about their outside appearance. But in rare cases, early graying of hair can indicate a disease. There are a number of health problems that cause premature graying. This can point to hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism as well as pernicious anemia.

What is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism means your thyroid gland is making too much thyroid hormone than it’s supposed to. This medical condition can have an impact on the skin, hair, and nails’ texture, color and other physical properties of the three mentioned. Most people suffering from this condition would usually see their hair becoming thinner or more fragile but there are also instances when the appearance of gray hair happens. Hyperthyroidism can lead to serious health problems which is why it is best to have it treated or have yourself checked early on to get proper treatment.

What is Hypothyroidism?

In the case of hypothyroidism, your thyroid gland is not making enough thyroid hormone as it should and this can also cause the hair to turn gray prematurely. The lack or insufficient amount of thyroid in the body can alter or change the activity of the melanocytes which are responsible for producing the pigment color. It is best to have yourself checked for this condition as it can lead to serious health problems and even lead to coma.

Pernicious Anemia

Pernicious anemia happens when one’s blood is not able to absorb vitamin B12. This nutrient is crucial for producing red blood cells. A blood test can reveal if you have this medical condition and is easily treated with Vitamin B12 injections.

Other Causes of Graying Hair

There are certain medications as well as herbs and supplements that can trigger early graying of hair. Cigarette smoking has also been linked to premature graying of hair. If you’re seeing a few strands of gray hair and you’re in the clear of these health problems, don’t worry too much!

Learned a little more about hair with this post? Brighten someone’s gray mood by sharing this post!