Will I Lose My Hair?

Hair loss, or alopecia, is fairly common in patients receiving chemotherapy. While fighting cancer, chemotherapy sometimes attacks healthy cells, including the cells that make your hair. You might lose the hair on top of your head or anywhere else on your body. Your experience will depend on the type and dose of your chemotherapy. Hair loss also can occur in patients receiving radiation treatments targeted to the head area.

Hair loss can be a traumatic experience for some patients. Try to maintain a positive attitude and remember that your hair will grow back in time. Meanwhile, several resources are vailable to help you feel good about yourself during this vulnerable period.

• The National Cancer Institute (NCI) has helpful tips for managing hair loss.
• Tender Loving Care offers products and advice for women coping with hair loss.
• Look Good . . . Feel Better offers information about feeling better about the way you look with hair loss.