What can the stress of coronavirus disease lead to as a temporary condition?

The stress resulting from the coronavirus disease can lead to a condition known as telogen effluvium, which is characterized by temporary hair loss. This occurs when significant stress causes hair follicles to prematurely enter the shedding phase of the hair growth cycle. In normal circumstances, hair grows in cycles, but when the body experiences stress or trauma—like illness, loss, or major life changes—it can trigger an increased number of hairs to enter this shedding phase at once.

Telogen effluvium is generally not permanent, as hair typically regrows once the underlying stressor is removed, or the body stabilizes. This differentiates it from more severe forms of hair loss that could result in conditions like pattern baldness or permanent baldness, which are related to genetic factors or other underlying health issues. Rapid hair growth would not be associated with stress but rather could occur in other contexts, such as hormonal changes or health improvements.

Thus, the correct response highlights a specific and common reaction to the temporary stressors associated with the pandemic, offering insight into a widely recognized phenomenon resulting from physical and emotional strain.