Final answer:
Hair loss from chronic illnesses can be due to various factors such as nutritional deficiencies, radiation therapy effects, and disruptions in hair growth cycles. Hair plays roles in homeostasis, and when chronic illness interferes with hair production and maintenance, it can lead to noticeable hair loss. A protein-deficient diet, vitamin deficiencies, and radiation treatment are several contributors to this issue.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hair loss associated with chronic illnesses can be explained by various biological factors. One important aspect is that hair fulfills several vital roles in maintaining homeostasis, including protection from UV radiation, insulating the scalp, and providing a sense of touch. In chronic conditions, several factors such as nutritional deficiencies, immune system dysfunctions, and side effects of treatments like radiation therapy can contribute to hair loss.
For instance, a protein-deficient diet can lead to hair loss as the body conserves protein for critical functions. Similarly, deficiencies in specific vitamins and minerals can lead to symptoms like dry hair, which, along with other symptoms such as gingivitis and slow wound healing, can indicate conditions like scurvy. Moreover, radiation therapy specifically causes localized hair loss due to cell destruction in hair follicles, and exposure to high radiation doses can lead to hair loss as a symptom of systemic cell damage, including cells of the immune system.
Hair growth occurs in three phases: the anagen (growth), catagen (transition), and telogen (rest) phases. During the anagen phase, which lasts for several years, hair grows actively. Disruptions in this growth cycle, either through the aging process, hormonal changes, or diseases, can lead to hair loss. Chronic illness may shift this balance, causing more hair to shed than is replaced, which results in noticeable hair loss.