The parents said the youngster was spotted chewing her long hair, but they didn't realise it was detrimental to her health. Often referred to as Rapunzel syndrome, the ingested here

eventually clicks in the patient's stomach and can cause severe stomach problems as it did with this 11-year-old.  In less serious cases the patients can be given medication to induce

vomiting. After the hairball, which scientists call a "trichobezoar", was removed doctor said that they were confident she would now be able to eat and drink.