<\/span><\/h1>\nTrichotillomania is a disorder characterized by an irresistible urge to remove or pull one's own hair<\/span>, which results in alopecia<\/span> (Hair loss). Trichotillomania is also called trichotylosis or hair pulling disorder.<\/p>\n<\/span>Who gets trichotillomania?<\/span><\/h2>\nTrichotillomania is estimated to affect up to 4% in the general population. It can affect men and women of any age, but it is more common in children than in adults. The onset peak generally occurs in the preschool years and also in early adolescence, usually around the time of puberty.<\/p>\n
In boys, trichotillomania affects boys and girls equally, but with increasing age, it is seen more frequently in women. It is not clear if this is because women are more likely to seek treatment. Men can also disguise pulling hair as male pattern baldness and shaving.<\/p>\n
<\/span>What causes trichotillomania?<\/span><\/h2>\nThe exact cause of trichotillomania remains largely unknown. Note:<\/p>\n
\n- There is a possible genetic<\/span> tendency to trichotillomania.<\/li>\n
- Trichotillomania often arises in individuals with haunting<\/span>–compulsive<\/span> disorder.<\/li>\n
- It can develop as a coping mechanism triggered by stress or anxiety.<\/li>\n
- It is commonly associated with other body-centered ones. repetitive<\/span> behaviors, such as nail biting (onychophagy), scratching the skin, acne excoriation, lip biting, and cheek chewing.<\/li>\n
- \nNeurological <\/span>factors may be involved.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
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<\/span>What are the clinical characteristics of trichotillomania?<\/span><\/h2>\nThe most common place to pull hair is on the scalp. The hairs can also be extracted from the eyebrows, eyelashes, trunk, arms, legs and pubic area.<\/p>\n