What Happens If You Eat Hair?

Accidentally swallowing a strand of hair is something most people have experienced — whether from your food, a pet, or your own head. But what if it happens often? What happens if you eat hair? While an occasional strand isn’t usually dangerous, eating hair regularly can pose serious health risks.

Why Do Some People Eat Hair?

Regular hair eating, known medically as trichophagia, is often related to a psychological disorder called trichotillomania — the compulsive urge to pull out one’s hair. In some cases, individuals may also chew or swallow the hair they pull out. This behavior is more common in children and teens but can persist into adulthood.

Trichophagia is considered a type of obsessive-compulsive or body-focused repetitive behavior. It often occurs in response to stress, trauma, or anxiety. 😟

Can Your Body Digest Hair?

No — human hair is made of a protein called keratin, which is highly resistant to digestive enzymes. Your stomach cannot break down keratin, meaning that swallowed hair can accumulate in the digestive tract rather than being digested or absorbed.

This is why repeated hair ingestion can become dangerous over time.

What Happens If You Accidentally Swallow Hair?

Accidentally eating a single strand of hair — such as one found in food — usually passes harmlessly through your digestive system. Your body will excrete it naturally without causing harm.

However, it may cause temporary discomfort like:

• Throat irritation 😤
• Gag reflex or coughing
• Upset stomach if multiple strands are swallowed

Dangers of Eating Hair Regularly

When hair is consumed frequently, it can clump together in the stomach and form a hairball, known medically as a trichobezoar. These masses of undigested hair can grow large and cause:

• Stomach pain or cramps 🤢
• Nausea and vomiting
• Severe constipation or intestinal blockage 🚫
• Internal bleeding from stomach wall erosion
• Weight loss and appetite loss

In extreme cases, these hairballs may require surgical removal. The condition is rare but serious and has been documented in medical literature under the name Rapunzel Syndrome, where the hairball extends from the stomach into the small intestine. 🏥

Health Complications from Eating Hair

Here are some long-term consequences if the habit continues unchecked:

• Digestive Tract Blockages: May require emergency surgery
• Malnutrition: Due to reduced absorption of nutrients
• Ulcers: Hairballs can damage the stomach lining
• Infection: Decomposing hair can harbor bacteria 🦠

These complications make it clear that eating hair isn’t just unsanitary — it’s potentially life-threatening in chronic cases.

How to Stop Eating Hair

Since trichophagia is often tied to mental health conditions, treatment may include:

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Helps break compulsive behaviors 🧠
• Habit Reversal Training: Replaces hair eating with healthier coping skills
• Medication: Anti-anxiety or antidepressant drugs may help
• Mindfulness practices: Meditation and journaling reduce stress

Support groups and family therapy may also help individuals identify triggers and maintain healthier habits.

Is Eating Hair a Sign of a Bigger Problem?

Yes. Chronic hair eating is typically not a standalone issue. It often coexists with other compulsive behaviors like skin picking, nail biting, or eating non-food items (pica). These habits may be linked to:

• Anxiety or depression
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Developmental disorders like autism
• Past trauma or abuse

If you or someone you know is eating hair regularly, it’s important to seek mental health support in addition to medical care.

Final Thoughts: Should You Be Worried?

So, what happens if you eat hair? An occasional strand won’t hurt you — but making a habit of it can lead to dangerous blockages, infections, and emotional distress.

If hair eating is linked to stress or compulsive behavior, don’t hesitate to reach out to a doctor or therapist. Early intervention can prevent serious health issues down the line.

In short, hair is meant to stay on your head — not go in your mouth. 🚫💇‍♀️🧠💊