Trichotillomania?

Question

Hi

I have trichotillomania and was wondering if anyone knows whether it can cause arthritis type problems in your fingers because sometimes after picking at my hair for a while my finger joints are sore?

Does anyone know if this can cause long term problems?

Thanks

Answer 1

Trichotillomania is a serious psychological condition that causes one to pull out their hair. It is an "impulse control disorder" that should be addressed with the help of medical supervision. In short, get some help from a psychologist or psychiatrist. Any repetitive action with the hands can contribute to joint problems like carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis.

That said, it can also cause long term permanent damage to the hair and scalp. A condition called "traction alopecia," where repeated physical stress to the hair and scalp (i.e. pulling), causes permanent damage to the follicles resulting in permanent hair loss, is common with trichotillomania. Those that wear very tight braids and weaves are also at risk for traction alopecia.

Answer 2

The two probably aren't connected. A friend of mine had severe trichotillomania and got hair plugs to fill in the bald spots, so stop while you're ahead!

Answer 3

I have had trich since age 9. 14 years later, I do have joint pain but it may be due to the fact that I cracked my knuckles furiously in my younger years, the fact that I do hair-braiding styles (sometimes stressing the joints because of the short length or thickness...) or maybve it is the trich.
But as much as a "non-trich" person would use their hands...
multiply that by 2 or 3 or even 4 in really stressful situations. I hope your OK though.

Answer 4

I've had trich for over a decade and the joints in my knuckle area definitely hurts even when I'm not pulling. I only have the pain on the fingers I use (thumb and index) so i'd argue there is definitely a link. Any repetitive stress on your joints will wear and tear the protective sheaths around our nerve endings.

Answer 5

I dont think they are affiliated with one another. By the way you ought to get that illness checked out. Your long term problems might be never ending bald spots, and hair wont grow there very easily again. Embarassment, anxiety, headaches, increased since of low self esteem.

Answer 6

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Answer 7

I have heard of no such connection, though I can see how doing something repeatedly with your fingers/hands could cause pain/cramping. What does your psychiatrist recommend? Hope things get better soon!