Teen boy constantly picking toenails and spots etc

Paco 4 months ago

Hi, my teenage son is forever picking at his nails, spots on his face etc to the point where he gets little infections, but refuses point blank to put any antiseptic cream on or let me take him to the pharmacist or GP. He is adamant that he knows best and will happily spend hours in the bathroom removing bits of skin off his feet, squeezing puss out of a swollen toe etc.

I appreciate this isn't the most pleasant post, but does this resonate with anyone here? I just want to keep him safe and healthy, but it's a battle I seem to keep losing.

Thanks

Paco 4 months ago in reply to Anna Mod

Thank you so much. I'll have a good read of those. Really helpful, thanks!
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Anna Mod 4 months ago

Hello Paco,

Thank you for your post. I am sorry to hear about your son. We have some information pages which may help.

I have included a range of pages.

I found some information on repetitive behaviours. Please find the link here:

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/about-autism/repeated-movements-and-behaviour-stimming

Some information here on focused interests:

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/about-autism/focused-and-dedicated-interests

I would not be able to diagnosis OCD but for your information here is a section on obsessive complusive disorder.

https://www.autism.org.uk/advice-and-guidance/topics/mental-health/ocd

With best wishes,

Anna Mod
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Paco 4 months ago in reply to TheCatWoman

Thanks for the reply and suggestion. The problem we have is that he's obsessed with and very good at biology and consequently thinks he knows the correct procedures for everything (such as correcting an ingrowing toenail, caused by toe walking), so he performs these "procedures" on himself. So far there have been no repercussions, but obviously he's still a child and does need medical advice from time to time, but there is no telling him.
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TheCatWoman 4 months ago

Is there any other way to deal with face spots than squeezing them? Me and my kids used to play a disgusting game where we'd get a peel off face mask and hold it up to the light and count the zits that had come out.

Can you get your son to bathe his feet in salt water?
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