What are the common diseases associated with white hair?
Disease description:
I don't know why either, but over these past two years I've had a lot of gray hair. I've tried some medications before, but the effects weren't very good. I'd like to ask, what are the common causes of gray hair?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Yang Ziqi
Common diseases associated with white hair (poliosis) mainly include the following categories:
1. Hereditary white hair: This type of white hair is usually related to family genetics. Genetic disorders such as progeria, albinism, and Werner syndrome may cause hair to turn white at an early age.
2. Skin diseases: Conditions such as vitiligo and alopecia areata are typically associated with mutations in pigmentation-related genes, which can impair melanin synthesis and result in white hair.
3. Endocrine disorders: Conditions such as hyperthyroidism and pituitary gland lesions may lead to reduced pituitary function, causing endocrine disorders that can result in white hair.
4. Malnutrition: Zinc is an essential element for melanin synthesis. Zinc deficiency can lead to reduced or absent pigmentation, while excessive zinc intake may also inhibit melanin production, leading to white hair.
When white hair appears, it is recommended to seek timely medical consultation to identify the underlying cause and receive targeted treatment.
