From the Research
I strongly recommend scheduling the patient for her appointment to discuss her hair loss concerns in detail, as addressing patient concerns is associated with increased patient satisfaction, as noted in a study published in the Irish journal of medical science 1. While hair loss can be a rare side effect of atorvastatin, it's essential to consider that many factors can cause hair loss, including stress, hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and certain medical conditions. We can order comprehensive labs before her appointment, including a complete blood count, thyroid function tests, iron studies, and vitamin D levels, which can help identify common causes of hair loss. It would be beneficial to continue the atorvastatin as prescribed by Dr. Bellini until we can properly evaluate whether it's contributing to her symptoms, as the cardiovascular benefits often outweigh potential side effects. During her appointment, we'll perform a thorough examination of her scalp and hair pattern to better characterize the type of hair loss she's experiencing, and consider the use of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) to aid in diagnosis, as suggested by a study published in the Journal of cosmetic dermatology 2. I understand her concern about cancer, but want to reassure her that most cases of hair loss are not related to malignancy, and we'll work together to identify the cause and discuss appropriate treatment options, prioritizing a person-centred care approach, as emphasized in the British journal of nursing 3. Some key points to consider in her evaluation include:
- Assessing her health history and concerns through a comprehensive and reflective approach, as discussed in the British journal of nursing 4
- Evaluating the severity of her hair loss and its potential impact on her quality of life
- Discussing the potential benefits and risks of continuing or discontinuing atorvastatin, and exploring alternative treatment options if necessary.