We've all, at one point or another, been so frustrated we've wanted to pull our hair out. It's an old expression that seems to suit the situation. People who have trichotillomania actually do pull their hair out, and it doesn't have be from frustration. Trichotillomania is a disorder that causes a person to pull out or break off chunks of hair. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, approximately 4 percent of the population suffers from the disorder, with women being four times more likely to be affected by the condition. Although there is relatively little scientific data on what causes the disorder, it seems to boil down to two essential factors.
Genetic Mutation
According to the Mayo Clinic, a majority of disorders, of which trichotillomania is one, are related to genetic factors. Agene called SLITRK1 has been linked to cases of trichotillomania, and another, more neurological disorder called Tourette syndrome. Tourette syndrome results in involuntary motor and vocal tics. Since the movement is involuntary, it can be related to trichotillomania.
Neurochemical Causes
Abnormalities in brain chemistry may also be linked to trichotillomania. According to Mental Health America, a disruption in the chemicals involved in messaging between the brain cells and the nerves, like serotonin and dopamine, may play a role in trichotillomania.
Stress Triggers
Believe it or not, stress could trigger the disorder. In fact, there are a variety of environmental conditions that could result in the disorder. According to Mental Health America, trichotillomania could be brought on just as many other illnesses in our society are---by circumstances and stresses in our daily lives.
