Causes of Trichotillomania

Custom Search

There are a number of theories as to why 2 to 3 percent of the population is afflicted with this. The cause of trichotillomania may include or may be related to anxiety disorders, mood disorders, stress and genetics.

It is a neurobiological condition classified as an impulse control disorder. It also has features or traits of compulsive disorder, a habit, tic disorder or even of an addiction.

The Genetic Causes of Trichotillomania

Genetic mutations (called SLITRK 1) that are linked to Tourette syndrome also have a relationship with trichotillomania. Interestingly, Tourette syndrome is often found in a higher rate of hair pulling in patients that have both Tourette disorder and OCD together as compared with patients that have either Tourette syndrome or OCD singly.

Tourette syndrome is a neurological disorder that causes a person to make unusual movements and sounds. These are called tics. Sometimes the person will say inappropriate words in normal conversation.

Some research has found a connection to the imbalance of natural brain chemicals like serotonin and dopamine as having a relationship to trichotillomania.

Also, stress is considered to indirectly cause Trichotillomania. Stress can have exacerbated effect on trichotillomania. Also relaxation can exacerbate it as well. In periods of relaxation such as reading a book or watching television can result in pulling.

Trichotillomania is often found to be in patients who have other psychiatric disorders at the same time. These include anxiety disorders, eating disorders, depression, attention deficit disorder (ADD) and body dysmorphic disorders.

There are dermatological causes for hair loss as well as medical reasons. These will be ruled out prior to making a diagnosis of trichotillomania.

There is a period of an increased sense of tension just before a hair pulling episode or the urge to pull comes on. With the pulling comes an instant feeling of pleasure, relief and gratification.

What is Trichotillomania takes a look at the condition. Is it a disease, condition. Is it psychological or mental. We have a different theory?

Treatment for Trichotillomania looks at what is being done and what is working. There is a new treatment on the block. Only thing, it is not a medicine!

Trichotillomania Support There are numerous support groups. If you are a group or know of one, please drop us a line and let us know where you are so we can list you here.

Etymology of Trichotillomania looks at the word history and origin or the term that is used to describe trichotillomania.

Trichotillomania Help The Main Trichotillomania Resource

Where all links on Trich and the glutathione connection can be found.

N-acetylcysteine More info and Where to Get It

GlutahioneDiseaseCure.com: The Causes of Trichotillomania Resource