What illness causes hair pulling?
May 16, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wan
Introduction
Hair-pulling may be associated with conditions such as vitamin deficiency, seborrheic dermatitis, or scalp inflammation. Specifically: excessive consumption of fatty foods can lead to overactive sebaceous glands, triggering seborrheic dermatitis and resulting in hair-pulling behavior. It is recommended to maintain a light and easily digestible diet, avoiding overly greasy foods.
Generally, hair-pulling may be associated with conditions such as seborrheic dermatitis, scalp inflammation, or vitamin deficiencies. A detailed analysis is as follows:
1. Vitamin Deficiency
If poor dietary habits exist in daily life—such as picky eating or a lack of balanced nutrition—this can lead to deficiencies in vitamins and trace elements, resulting in increased scalp sweating and consequently causing hair-pulling behavior. Under medical guidance, patients may take supplements such as calcium gluconate tablets or vitamin D drops for treatment.
2. Seborrheic Dermatitis
Consuming large amounts of fatty foods may overstimulate sebaceous glands, leading to excessive sebum production and triggering seborrheic dermatitis, which may result in hair-pulling. It is recommended to maintain a light, easily digestible diet and avoid overly greasy foods.
3. Scalp Inflammation
If the scalp surface is damaged and subsequently infected by external bacteria, scalp inflammation may occur, causing itching and leading to hair-pulling. Under medical supervision, topical treatments such as erythromycin ointment or clobetasol propionate cream may be applied.
In addition to the above, conditions such as autism, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), and anxiety disorders may also cause this behavior. It is advisable to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment.
