Self-inflicted injury
About Self-inflicted injury
Defined as a self-inflicted injury. The most common injuries are: cutting, burning, picking, hair pulling, biting, hitting and bone breaking. The disorder is seen most often in the following groups: adolescent females, people with past abuse, those with substance abuse, people with poor coping skills, and those with poor social support. Self injury most often occurs when feelings overwhelm the patient and are an expression of relief.Symptoms
Frequent cuts, unexplained burns, self-punching or scratching, needle sticking, head banging, eye pressing, finger or arm biting, pulling out one's hair, picking at one's skin.Tests & Diagnostics
A history and physical exam will be performed. Psychological evaluation will be conducted. Tests to rule out other ingestions or damage done by the behavior may be done.Common tests: Comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP).
Prescription medications
Conventional treatment summary
The specific self-inflicted injury will be repaired. Treatment includes: antidepressants, anti-anxiety medications, psychotherapy, family therapy, group therapy, and/or cognitive behavioral therapy.Medical specialties
Psychiatry
This page is educational content, not medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment of Self-inflicted injury.