Patient's question:
Today, while combing my child's hair, I noticed many white hairs on top of their head. My child is 6 years old this year, and it's quite surprising that they already have white hairs at such a young age. Could you please explain why this is happening? Thank you!!Doctor's answer:
Hello: The number of pigment granules in the hair determines its color. Malnutrition, such as a lack of protein, vitamins, and some trace elements (like copper), can cause hair to turn white. Some chronic wasting diseases, such as tuberculosis, due to a lack of nutrition, can cause hair to turn white earlier than in the general population. Some patients with prolonged fever may have their hair turn yellow, brittle, or even white. Certain endocrine diseases, such as pituitary or thyroid disorders, can affect the ability of pigment cells to produce pigment granules.