Acute Telogen Effluvium After Illness: A 44-Year-Old Case in Houston & Katy, Texas
Sudden hair shedding can be distressing, especially when it seems to appear overnight. A 44-year-old woman recently visited Dr. Reena Jogi, board-certified dermatologist and hair loss specialist in Houston and Katy, Texas, after noticing a sudden increase in hair shedding just two weeks earlier.
Case Overview
The patient presented with diffuse hair loss that developed over a two-week period. The shedding began approximately two weeks after recovering from a flu infection in late July. She reported no itching, scaling, or tenderness of the scalp. Her medical history was otherwise unremarkable, and recent bloodwork from her primary care provider was within normal limits.
A family history of hair thinning in her mother was also noted.
Examination and Diagnosis
On examination, diffuse hair thinning was visible, especially over the left superior parietal region, and a positive hair-pull test confirmed active shedding. Dermatoscopy revealed no signs of inflammation or scarring. The findings were most consistent with telogen effluvium (TE) — a temporary shedding condition often triggered by illness, stress, or hormonal changes.
Because the patient’s shedding followed a viral infection, it was likely a post-illness telogen effluvium, a common delayed reaction that causes follicles to prematurely enter the resting (telogen) phase about 6–8 weeks after the triggering event.
Treatment Discussion
Dr. Jogi reviewed a wide range of evidence-based hair restoration options, including:
Oral or topical minoxidil for follicle stimulation
Spironolactone for hormonal regulation in women
Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to enhance scalp circulation
PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) or Alma TED treatments for targeted regrowth
Nutritional supplements such as Nutrafol or Viviscal for overall follicle support
Hair transplant as a future option for stable, chronic hair loss cases
All risks, benefits, and expected results were discussed in detail.
Personalized Treatment Plan
After an in-depth consultation, the patient chose a conservative medical approach and proceeded with both spironolactone therapy and an intramuscular Kenalog (IMK) injection at her initial visit.
Treatment Plan:
Spironolactone 50 mg twice daily to help balance hormonal activity and reduce further shedding
Intramuscular Kenalog 40 mg injection administered to reduce inflammation and stabilize hair loss
Regular potassium and renal function monitoring due to long-term spironolactone use
Follow-up scheduled in 3 months for reassessment and potential addition of minoxidil or low-level laser therapy
Dr. Jogi also recommended that the patient consult with an endocrinologist for a more comprehensive hormonal evaluation to identify any underlying metabolic contributors.
Counseling and Expectations
Dr. Jogi educated the patient that telogen effluvium is a self-limited condition that usually resolves over several months once the triggering event has passed.
Patients should expect:
Temporary shedding before regrowth
Gradual improvement over 3–6 months
The importance of avoiding frequent medication changes or abrupt discontinuation
Potential side effects of spironolactone were also reviewed, including dizziness, menstrual changes, breast tenderness, and fatigue, as well as the need to avoid use during pregnancy.
Follow-Up and Long-Term Care
The patient was reassured that the shedding episode is likely transient and related to recent illness and stress from recovery. She will return for a follow-up in three months to monitor progress and consider adding minoxidil or PRP therapy if needed.
Expert Hair Loss Care in Katy and Houston, Texas
At Reena Jogi MD Dermatology, patients receive personalized, evidence-based care for telogen effluvium, female pattern hair loss, and hormonal hair thinning. Dr. Jogi provides a full spectrum of options—from medical treatments like minoxidil and spironolactone to advanced in-office procedures like PRP and Alma TED—helping women restore confidence and healthy hair.
If you’re noticing sudden hair shedding or thinning after illness, stress, or hormonal changes, schedule a consultation with Dr. Reena Jogi in Houston or Katy, Texas, for a customized treatment plan.
