A member asked:
Is it normal for my child to be scratching herself with fingernails?
2 doctor answers • 3 doctors weighed in
Dr. Gregg Alexanderanswered
Pediatrics 34 years experience
Yes: Yes, infants will often scratch themselves, sometimes even causing bleeding. It's hard, but try to keep those little nails trimmed.
For toddlers and older children, maybe not. If their scratching a lot, especially if it keeps them awake at night, you should talk with your pediatrician about it.
6.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Laura Webbanswered
Pediatrics 14 years experience
Yes: Babies do not yet have great control over the movements of their arms and legs. They don't mean to scratch themselves, but because they can't always control where their arms go and when they open and close their fists it is easy for those little fingernails to make scratches on their face. Try to keep the nails trimmed (easiest to do after a bath when they are nice and soft) or use mittens.
6.6k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
Last updated Dec 27, 2014
People also asked
Connect with a U.S. board-certified doctor by text or video anytime, anywhere.
24/7 visits - just $39!
50% off with $15/month membership
Disclaimer:
Content on HealthTap (including answers) should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and interactions on HealthTap do not create a doctor-patient relationship. Never disregard or delay professional medical advice in person because of anything on HealthTap. Call your doctor or 911 if you think you may have a medical emergency.