Compulsive Hair-Pulling Disorder

Compulsive Hair-Pulling Disorder

Article
Behavioral & Mental Health
Kids' Zone
+1
Contributed byMaulik P. Purohit MD MPHMar 08, 2018

The topic Compulsive Hair-Pulling Disorder you are seeking is a synonym, or alternative name, or is closely related to the medical condition Trichotillomania.

Quick Summary:

  • Trichotillomania (TTM) is a psychiatric disorder in which individuals pull out hair from their own head or body, leading to serious cosmetic issues. It is also known as Compulsive Hair-Pulling Disorder
  • In other words, Trichotillomania may be described as an impulse control disorder in which one has a recurrent, irresistible urge to pull out his/her hair from any part of the body, despite wanting to stop. Pulling out hair gives such individuals a feeling of relief, and this begins a vicious cycle, where individuals continue the repetitive behavior, despite it affecting their performance (at school or job) and cosmetic appearance
  • Trichotillomania is mostly observed during childhood and adolescence, and more cases are reported in females. Having a family history of the condition and constantly harboring negative emotions (such as anxiety and depression) are some risk factors for developing this disorder. However, the exact cause of TTM is unknown. Several theories, such as stress, imbalance in neurotransmitters in the brain, and hormonal fluxes during puberty, have been proposed to explain the condition
  • The signs and symptoms of Trichotillomania include compulsive pulling of hair from the scalp, eyelashes, eyebrows, arms and legs, swallowing pulled hair, and gastrointestinal issues due to hair ingestion. It can lead to considerable hair loss, baldness and distress, affecting one’s social life and overall functioning
  • Individuals experience tension and anxiety before pulling hair from their body, but are unable to resist the urge. Once the urge of wanting to pull out hair is fulfilled, the individuals enjoy a feeling of relief and gratification. This component also forms a criterion to diagnose the disorder. TTM is often associated with other psychiatric disorders such as depression and self-inflicted behavior
  • In many cases, the treatment of Trichotillomania is difficult. Often, a combination of behavioral therapy and antidepressant medications is employed to treat the disorder. Usually, children with TTM recover completely. The prognosis for adolescents and adults is determined on a case-by-case basis, as the disorder may continue for the remainder of their lives, requiring continual treatment

Please find comprehensive information on Trichotillomania regarding definition, distribution, risk factors, causes, signs & symptoms, diagnosis, complications, treatment, prevention, prognosis, and additional useful information HERE.

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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH

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