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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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How To Overcome The Habit Of Biting Callus On Skin?

Hi, I used to consider this a major problem and was very fearful of it becoming known by others. I have autophagia. A self diagnosis, so I m not sure if it s legit. I compulsively chew off and eat any callus that forms on my body. Having done so since I was around 5-6 I now have a ready supply of thick skin all over my hands and feet. I also compulsively eat my lips. It seems to be prompted by a variety of things. First and foremost is hunger, then comes anxiety, boredom, stress and finally loneliness. As i said, In recent years having exposed some friends to my behaviour I m no longer fearful of talking about it. I m concerned if this form of pica will damage me over the long term. I m 24 now and haven t experienced any side effects apart from the gradual sharpening of my teeth. Also considering the fact that my calluses have grown in size, the appearance of my hands and feet are rather grotesque. So ultimately i want to be able to stop this behaviour, any advice?
Fri, 21 Nov 2014
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Psychiatrist,  's  Response
Hello thanks for asking from HCM

The symptoms you have mentioned like biting callus on skin of body could be occurring due to some impulse control disorder. These symptoms are related to compulsive nail biting or onychophagia. As you have mentioned already that the problem get aggravated by anxiety provoking stimuli. I would advise you to consult a Psychiatrist for treatment. The complaints are causing significant distress to your social and personal life and also causing your body to look ugly so consulting a psychiatrist is need of hour.

Medicines like Fluoxetine have very good results in decreasing these compulsive undesired behaviour. Attend behaviour therapy sessions for relaxation.

Thanks, hope this helps you.
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How To Overcome The Habit Of Biting Callus On Skin?

Hello thanks for asking from HCM The symptoms you have mentioned like biting callus on skin of body could be occurring due to some impulse control disorder. These symptoms are related to compulsive nail biting or onychophagia. As you have mentioned already that the problem get aggravated by anxiety provoking stimuli. I would advise you to consult a Psychiatrist for treatment. The complaints are causing significant distress to your social and personal life and also causing your body to look ugly so consulting a psychiatrist is need of hour. Medicines like Fluoxetine have very good results in decreasing these compulsive undesired behaviour. Attend behaviour therapy sessions for relaxation. Thanks, hope this helps you.