Question

My child is 9 years old and has recently started biting their fingernails, which was not a previous behavior. What could be the cause? Thank you! First question supplement: Has a doctor provided an answer yet? Thank you!

Answer

Based on the symptoms you’ve described, your child is exhibiting signs of pica. This condition is often associated with a deficiency in zinc or iron minerals. Some also believe it may be linked to psychological factors.

  1. If your child continues this behavior, consider giving them an iron supplement or zinc sulfate.
  2. Additionally, it’s important to note that children who engage in eating non-food items can develop a psychological disorder known as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), which is often related to neglect and an abnormal family environment. Initially, children may pick up and eat non-food items without supervision, which can evolve into a habit that becomes difficult to break over time. Therefore, it’s crucial to provide your child with more attention and avoid harsh discipline.
  3. I hope these suggestions are helpful in addressing your child’s behavior. Wishing your child a healthy and happy growth.