Why fingernail biting

Some doctors recommend taking a gradual approach to break the habit. Try to stop biting one set of nails, such as your thumb nails, first. The goal is to get to the point where you no longer bite any of your nails. For some people, nail biting may be a sign of a more serious psychological or emotional problem. If you bite your nails and develop a skin or nail infection, consult a board-certified dermatologist.

Tips for healthy nails. Manicure and pedicure safety. Gel manicures. How to trim your nails. Nail changes a dermatologist should examine. How to stop biting your nails Nail biting typically begins in childhood and can continue through adulthood, and the side effects can be more than cosmetic.

Chronic nail biting often has a self-soothing quality it provides a sense of calm , so people may use it as a coping mechanism. Sometimes, a hangnail or nail imperfection could spur someone to excessively groom the nail. Their goal is to improve the look of the nail, but unfortunately, the nail often ends up looking worse. Other triggers could be boredom, needing to concentrate or a stressful situation.

A: Doctors classify chronic nail biting as a type of obsessive-compulsive disorder since the person has difficulty stopping. People often want to stop and make multiple attempts to quit without success.

It can make someone feel worse and further fuel the behavior. Stick with that one finger until it becomes a habit and the nail begins to look healthier. Slowly back off that finger until you completely break the habit. In cognitive behavioral therapy CBT , a therapist will help you identify unhelpful behavior patterns and replace them with different behaviors. CBT can be quite effective.

But you should make an appointment with your doctor if you experience:. Addressing the source of the problem may help you change the behavior. Nail biting is a repetitive behavior that ranges from mild to severe.

It usually starts in childhood. While some people outgrow it, it can become a lifelong habit. But severe nail biting can lead to infection, dental problems, and other issues that need to be treated. There are some strategies that can help you stop biting your nails.

Dermatophagia is a type of body-focused repetitive behavior. Talk to your doctor if you regularly bite your fingers and nails. Ingrown fingernails can often be treated at home, but sometimes they'll require a trip to the doctor. Split nails are often caused by an injury such as a stubbed toe or receiving a severe blow to a finger or thumb. There are, however, other causes of…. Special nail polishes are available that have a bitter taste to them. If your nails are coated with a nasty taste, you may condition yourself not to bite them.

Find a substitute. Keep your hands busy with a stress ball, worry stone, or even a clickable pen. You might also consider chewing gum to keep your mouth occupied. Take it slow. Still biting? Be gentle with yourself. If you've repeatedly tried to quit without success, talk to your doctor. Obioha says. Tags: Expert Advice. Popular Categories. Popular Topics. Women's Health. Expert Advice. Patient Stories. Make an Appointment.