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.

Patients and even their doctors often overlook or even ignore the early symptoms of diabetes. Because of this, it may go undetected for some time, and as a result the patient may go blind or suffer from kidney failure or heart disease. If diabetes is discovered in the early stages, the progress of the disease can be slowed or even halted by treatment. The patient can be saved from undue loss of hair, and live longer and healthier. Patients with diabetes must make a commitment to consistent lifestyle management if their disease is to be controlled.

Hair loss typically begins with the onset of diabetes and increases in severity as the disease progresses. Early diagnosis of the hair loss and its cause is essential as it may be your body's way of telling you that something more serious is happening. It is imperative that you seek a physician's advice concerning you hair loss problem to prevent further hair loss. While lotions and conditioners are readily available, they may not be sufficient to stop you hair loss problem. Consulting with a physician is the best way to get a handle on the situation and treat it properly from the beginning.