My Experience: Hair Loss and a Biologic
My hair has always been of bit wild, thick, curly, and I swear with a mind of its own. In connecting with some other asthmatics, I had heard that the biologic that I am taking had some connections to hair loss. I had been in the clinical trial for this drug and had not remembered experiencing hair loss and honestly, I can’t recall if it was even on the list of the adverse effects at that time.
Speaking with my asthma specialist
It is important to note that several things can cause hair loss and before correlating its relationship to a medication you are taking, it is important to connect with your care team and ensure any other potential causes have been discussed. In my case, prednisone use and stress. When I first noticed that this was happening, I did have a preliminary discussion about it with one of the fellows at my specialist office and it was brushed off that it was not a concern until I had bald patches. It was not the most helpful way to address a patients’ concern. I appreciate that it may be the reality, however, it was truly dismissive. In speaking with my actual specialist, it was identified that it was my biologic that was causing this. They confirmed that it was indeed a documented side effect and that there are no treatments other than discontinuing the medication.
We may try a slight pause in this medication, however, there are other considerations, such as the possibility for an increase, and/or return in symptoms, as well as as a benefit, this medication is also managing some other nasal issues and those would potentially need to be treated with an alternate medication. This had me thinking; how important is my hair anyway?
Weighing in on pros and cons of my biologic
It was once again time to consider the pros and cons of a particular medication. I have always had lots of hair and losing a bunch may not be as noticeable to many people, however, I noticed that the texture has changed and my vacuum was getting a workout from picking up all the hair. It looks and feels different, and in my opinion not particularly attractive, however not life or death. A few family members have commented that it is “different” and encouraged me to have it checked. My family doctor had suggested that I do not pause or discontinue my biologics but that I investigate a hair loss clinic as other patients have benefited from this. I will keep you posted on those explorations. Also, my specialists and my family doctor have a difference of opinion on this one. Until then, I will be exploring hats, head ties, and maybe wigs.
When I think about the importance of my hair, even in its current sad state, I still would prefer to be symptom-free and not be restricted in my activities. I have finally returned to a decent level of physical activity and I don’t want to lose the gains that I have made there because of my hair. I also have concerns about losing some of my asthma control, I feel that would be a game-changer for me. I do not want to have constant symptoms and feel limited in my activities again, it was such a tough battle to constantly fight. I want to enjoy as many good breathing days as possible.
Care to share your experiences?
What criteria do you use for determining your threshold for the side effects of an asthma medication? Have you lived with some but wish you didn’t? I would love to hear how you make tough decisions.
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