Postpartum Hair Fall with Long-Term Homoepathic treatment -treated succesfully.

A 48-year-old female [Patient ID–36849] presented with a long-standing complaint of hair fall that had persisted since 2001. The hair fall had begun soon after childbirth and had gradually worsened over the years. The patient complained of a daily loss of approximately 150 strands initially, which had caused thinning and a visible reduction in hair volume, though no bald patches or localized alopecia were present. The hair was lusterless, with a tendency toward split ends and stickiness. No premature graying was noted. The complaint had persisted for over two decades, and despite periods of partial improvement, the condition had never resolved completely.

There was no history of dandruff, fungal infections, or boils on the scalp. The patient denied the use of harsh chemical products, shampoos, or dyes before the onset of symptoms. The problem was not preceded by any major illness, prolonged medication, or emotional shock. The hair fall was noticed to increase after hair washing and combing.

Associated complaints – Included diabetes mellitus and hypertension, for which she was under regular management.

Past and Family History – There was no significant past history of major illnesses, skin disorders, or systemic diseases. No family history of similar hair fall, thyroid disorders, or other chronic conditions was mentioned by the patient.

Physical Generals – The patient’s appetite was average, with a marked craving for sweet and spicy food. Thirst was average. Sweating was more prominent over the scalp. She was more tolerant of cold than of heat. Her physical build was described as flabby. She weighed 78 kg and measured 151 cm in height. Urinary functions were normal. Menses were regular, with normal flow and no associated complaints. Sleep was sound and refreshing. She did not have any particular dreams.

Mental Generals – The patient was generally happy and satisfied, being a homemaker. She lived with her husband, son, and mother-in-law. She did not complain of any major stress related to family or relationships. However, she got occasionally angry and insecure, especially when faced with challenges, and in such moments, she expressed her anger by shouting. She denied episodes of depression, anxiety, or fearfulness.

Physical Examination Findings

Hair: Lusterless, thinning, and fragile with split ends.

Scalp: No bald patches, dandruff, or fungal infections noted.

Systemic: Stable under treatment for diabetes and hypertension.

Follow-Ups:

• 2018–2019: Gradual improvement of hair fall was noted up to 55–65%. Reduction in strands per day, but regrowth was absent.
• 2020: Hair fall reduced to around 40 strands/day. Mild improvement in itching. Overall, 60–70% better, though hair density remained unchanged.
• 2021: Hair fall was controlled to 20–30 strands/day. Thinning of hair continued, and scalp visibility increased. Condition remained stable thereafter.
• 2022: Hair fall reduced further, averaging 20–25 strands/day. No dandruff or itching, though regrowth remained poor. The condition was largely stable.
• 2023: Significant improvement, about 70–80% reduction in hair fall. Average daily loss was 20–25 strands. Condition remained stable, but without further improvement in thickness.
• 2024: Condition remained stable, hair fall was 20–25 strands/day. A slight temporary increase (30–40/day) was noticed during seasonal/weather changes, with mild dryness of the scalp. Iron and Vitamin D supplementation was added.
• 2025: Hair fall was controlled at 20–25 strands/day. No dandruff or itching was noted. The patient used homemade coconut oil with curry leaves and hibiscus. Almost 70–80% improvement compared to baseline was maintained. Condition remained stable at the last follow-up.

Conclusion:

In this chronic case of diffuse hair fall without bald patches, over two decades, hair fall had reduced from 150 strands/day to 20–25 strands/day with gradual improvement in scalp healthiness and control of shedding. Hair density and regrowth remained limited, but the condition was stable and well-managed with homeopathy.

• Case study written by – Dr. Shreya Hedaoo, an associate Doctor to Dr. Rajesh Shah, MD (Hom.)