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Onychophagia is a common habit where a person repeatedly bites their fingernails. It’s especially common in kids and happens when the mouth is used for something other than eating or talking.
What causes onychophagia?
This habit is typically triggered by stress, anxiety, or boredom. For some, it’s also a way to cope with uncomfortable situations or as a self-soothing mechanism.
Are there health risks associated with onychophagia?
Yes, chronic nail-biting can lead to dental problems, infections of the nail bed, and damaged skin around the nails. It can also increase the risk of colds and other infections from germs transferred from the hands to the mouth.
How can someone stop nail-biting?
Effective strategies include stress management techniques, applying bitter-tasting nail polishes, using stress balls or fidget devices, and therapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to address the underlying anxiety.
Is onychophagia linked to other psychological disorders?
Onychophagia can be associated with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and other anxiety disorders. It’s important for those severely affected to seek psychological evaluation and treatment.
Onychophagia, or nail biting, is a chronic, compulsive oral parafunctional activity that involves repeatedly biting one’s own fingernails. This prevalent condition affects an estimated 20-30% of the population, with a higher incidence among children and adolescents. Onychophagia is often associated with anxiety, stress, or boredom and may co-occur with other body-focused repetitive behaviors.
Onychophagia manifests through both visible and psychological symptoms, impacting an individual’s health. Here are some of the common symptoms:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Visible Nail Damage | Nails appear short, jagged, or bitten down. |
| Cuticle Damage | Can lead to damaged or infected cuticles. |
| Finger Pain | Causes pain and sensitivity in fingertips. |
| Dental Issues | Misaligned teeth or damaged tooth enamel. |
| Stress and Anxiety | Often related to increased stress or anxiety. |
Early identification of these symptoms allows for timely intervention, helping individuals adopt effective management techniques to improve overall well-being.
