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Ask Doctor Chris: Hair loss and painful smiling

Every week we partner up with our sister magazine, Woman, to bring you expert health advice from This Morning's Dr Chris Steele MBE, health journalist of the year. This week he answers your questions about hair loss and painful smiling.

The problem: 'I'm losing my hair'

I'm 36, and my hair, which has always been fine, is getting very thin - even on my eyebrows! What can I do?

The solution

See your GP and ask to be tested for thyroid disease. You may have an underactive thyroid, which can also cause fatigue, weight gain, a hoarse voice, constipation, puffy eyes and dry skin. Only some of these symptoms need to be present, not all. A supplement called Nourkrin claims to reduce hair loss and promote growth, as does a product range called Regaine - ask your pharmacist about them.

The problem: 'It hurts me to smile'

The corners of my mouth are sore and cracked. I've tried using moisturisers but it doesn't help - what can you recommend?

The solution

Sounds like you have angular stomatitis, which can be very painful, especially when opening the mouth wide. It can be caused by a vitamin B deficiency, a fungal infection, anaemia, diabetes and other disorders. If you take a good vitamin B supplement and use antifungal cream, this might help. Otherwise, talk to your GP.

- Read more great health advice from Dr Chris

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There's more advice from Dr Chris in this week's bigger, better WOMAN, on sale every Tuesday

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