Search

for
Search:

GlossaryTrichophagia

compulsive eating of one's own hair

Trichophagia is a compulsive behavior where an individual eats their own hair. This condition is often associated with trichotillomania, a disorder characterized by the urge to pull out one's hair, and can lead to serious medical complications such as the formation of hairballs (trichobezoars) in the digestive tract.

Related Terms

Research

5 / 92 results

research Trichotillomania and Trichophagia: Modern Diagnostic and Therapeutic Methods

30 citations , August 2018 in “Dermatology and Therapy”

Better-designed, long-term studies are needed to optimize treatment for trichotillomania and trichophagia.

An Unusual Case of Trichotillomania and Trichophagia Associated with Authentic Hair Extension in a Young African-American Female Adult

research An unusual case of trichotillomania and trichophagia associated with authentic hair extension as seen in a young African-American female adult

December 2022 in “Discover Psychology”

A young woman developed a bowel obstruction from eating hair from her weave to relieve anxiety.

research Annals of General Psychiatry An unusual case of trichotillomania and trichophagia in a young African American female adult

July 2022 in “Research Square (Research Square)”

A young woman developed a bowel obstruction from eating hair extensions, highlighting the need for cultural awareness and research on these behaviors in the Black community.