Nail biting

Editor-In-Chief: Prab R Tumpati, MD
Obesity, Sleep & Internal medicine
Founder, WikiMD Wellnesspedia &
W8MD medical weight loss NYC and sleep center NYC

Nail biting
A person biting their nails
Synonyms	Onychophagia
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Nail damage, skin damage, infection risk
Complications	Infection, dental problems, psychological stress
Onset	Childhood or adolescence
Duration	Can be chronic
Types	N/A
Causes	Stress, anxiety, boredom, habit
Risks	Infection, dental issues, social stigma
Diagnosis	Clinical evaluation
Differential diagnosis	Dermatophagia, trichotillomania, onychotillomania
Prevention	Behavioral therapy, stress management
Treatment	Cognitive behavioral therapy, habit reversal training, medication
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	Varies; often improves with treatment
Frequency	Common, especially in children and adolescents
Deaths	N/A

Nail biting

Nail biting, also known as onychophagy or onychophagia, is a common oral compulsive habit where an individual bites off the free edge of their nails. While it can occur in people of any age, it is particularly prevalent among children and adolescents. Nail biting is often considered a stress-relieving activity or a response to anxiety, boredom, or nervousness.

Causes

The exact cause of nail biting is not well understood, but it is believed to be multifactorial. Psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, and boredom, are commonly associated with the onset and persistence of nail biting. In some cases, it may also be a manifestation of underlying mental health conditions, such as Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).

Health Risks

Nail biting can lead to several health issues, including:

• Infections: Frequent nail biting can damage the skin around the nail, leading to bacterial or fungal infections.
• Dental Problems: Chronic nail biting can cause damage to the teeth, such as tooth wear, misalignment, or even tooth loss.
• Nail Deformities: Persistent nail biting can interfere with normal nail growth, leading to deformed nails.

Treatment

Treatment for nail biting often involves a combination of behavioral therapies and, in some cases, medication. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) is commonly used to help individuals recognize and modify their nail-biting behavior. Habit reversal training, a type of CBT, is particularly effective. In severe cases, or when nail biting is a symptom of an underlying condition like OCD or ADHD, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed.

Prevention

Preventive measures for nail biting include:

• Keeping nails trimmed short.
• Using bitter-tasting nail polishes designed to deter nail biting.
• Identifying triggers and developing coping strategies to manage stress and anxiety.
• Engaging in activities that keep the hands busy.

Summary

Nail biting is a common habit that can lead to various health issues if not addressed. Understanding the underlying causes and seeking appropriate treatment can help individuals overcome this habit and prevent its negative health impacts.

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