Warning Signs Of Dermatophagia

Behavior Is Significantly Distressing

Patients suffering from dermatophagia find the behavior significantly distressing. They try to hide the affected areas because they are embarrassed and do not want to have to explain it to everyone. However, others might not ask what is going on, but they might find the damage abhorrent and not want to shake hands or engage in any activity that requires touching. If the area being chewed is in the mouth, it might restrict the patient from drinking hot beverages or eating food with spices because they will probably cause pain. However, as the damage continues, it can result in scarring that will prevent the patient from feeling things that are too hot or too cold. This can cause burns to the inside of the mouth because they cannot accurately determine if something's temperature is too extreme to drink. All of these situations can cause an individual to be distressed and withdraw themselves from group settings, so they can avoid being uncomfortable.