Strictly Come Dancing star left 'down' after shock diagnosis aged 35
Strictly Come Dancing star left 'down' after shock diagnosis aged 35
The actress shared the shock diagnosis she's been given
Dani Harmer discusses her perimenopause diagnosis
Dani Harmer, famously known for her role as the unforgettable Tracy Beaker, has reached out to her followers for advice after disclosing she is undergoing perimenopause and facing distressing symptoms like hair loss.
The Strictly Come Dancing star, who made a name for herself playing Jacqueline Wilson's beloved character from 2002 to 2005, made the announcement in an emotional video on TikTok.
Dani shared the significant impact this hormonal change is having on her, remarking: "I have been diagnosed with perimenopause. And what I need your help with is my hair. I am losing it – like it is thinning so badly you can see the bald patches coming in."
The 35-year-old delineated the dire state of her hair: "Just like the texture – it's thinning. It's bad, right?"
She questioned her audience about the viability of getting extensions or if they could exacerbate the condition of her hair, saying: "It could be a terrible idea. It might make my hair even worse, to be honest. But it's really getting me down now."
Dani Harmer is worried about hair loss after being diagnosed with perimenopause
(Image: (Image: Getty) )
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Dani disclosed that it was actually her husband, Simon Brough, who first identified shifts in her temperament and mindset.
Candidly, she shared: "He could see the difference – especially with my depression and anxiety."
Additionally, Dani revealed she was experiencing brain fog, night terrors, among other perimenopausal symptoms.
Perimenopause is the medical term for a transition phase leading up to menopause, potentially starting in a woman's 30s or 40s.
She asked followers for advice on how to keep her thick locks
(Image: (Image: Getty) )
Despite the hurdles she's been encountering, Dani revealed that after nearly two years on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), she finally feels like herself again.
"The only things that have really stuck are the hair loss and the odd hot flush," she added.
The actress proceeded to share her insights with women experiencing similar situations, stating: "I'm definitely no expert at all! But if anyone has any questions I'll try and answer using my experiences."
Her video received responses from fans offering both emotional support and practical suggestions for combating her hair loss.
Dani was a contestant on Strictly in 2012
(Image: BBC )
Suggestions included remedies such as collagen powder, rosemary oil, Jamaican black castor oil, and silk pillowcases.
One commenter advised: " Nooo no extensions – this will thin it more. Wear your hair down more, no tight hair bands. Change your shampoo and routines. Change your parting regularly. I'm going through the same."
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Perimenopause can trigger a variety of symptoms including irregular periods, mood swings, brain fog, hot flushes, and sleep issues. Other common indicators of this transitional period include vaginal dryness, sensitive teeth, low libido, and changes in skin and hair.
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