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Additional names
This group contains additional names: - Hair-eating disorder - Rapunzel syndrome - Pica
General
Trichophagia is a disorder characterized by the compulsion to eat one's own hair. This condition is also referred to as hair-eating disorder, Rapunzel syndrome, or pica.
5 people with Trichophagia
Learn from others who are experiencing Trichophagia.
Signs & symptoms
- Consumption of hair - Abdominal pain - Constipation or diarrhea - Malnutrition - Obstructive symptoms in the gastrointestinal tract - Weight loss - Formation of hairballs (trichobezoars) in the stomach or intestines
Diagnosis
Trichophagia is typically diagnosed based on a patient's history and physical examination. X-rays or endoscopy may be performed to evaluate the extent of the hairball formation in the digestive tract.
Treatment
Treatment of trichophagia typically involves a combination of psychological counseling and behavioral therapy to address the underlying compulsion to eat hair. Nutritional support may also be necessary if malnutrition has occurred. In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove hairballs from the digestive tract.
Note
☝ We provide information on prescription and over-the-counter medicines, diagnosis, procedures and lab tests. This material is provided for educational purposes only and is not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
National Institutes of Health ∙ World Health Organization ∙ MedlinePluse ∙ Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
☝ All information has been reviewed by certified physicians from Alike
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