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Biting your fingernails, also known as onychophagia, can have several potential dangers and negative effects on your health:
Damage to the nails: Biting your nails can lead to jagged and uneven edges, weakening the structure of the nail. This may cause them to split, peel, or become more prone to breakage.
Infection risk: Our hands come into contact with various surfaces throughout the day, and underneath our nails, bacteria and dirt can accumulate. Biting your nails can introduce these pathogens into your mouth, potentially leading to infections or illnesses.
Dental problems: Constantly biting your nails can put excessive pressure on your teeth, leading to enamel damage, chipping, or misalignment over time. It may also cause jaw problems like TMJ (temporomandibular joint) disorders.
Damage to the cuticles: Biting the skin around your nails, known as the cuticles, can cause irritation, redness, and even small cuts. Damaged cuticles may increase the risk of infection.
Transmitting germs: In addition to the potential infections from the nails, nail-biting can also transfer germs from your mouth to your hands, increasing the risk of spreading illness or infection to others.
Worsening existing conditions: For individuals with certain skin conditions, like eczema or psoriasis, nail-biting can exacerbate these conditions and lead to further irritation.
Paronychia: This is a painful infection that occurs around the nails and can be caused by nail-biting, leading to redness, swelling, and pus-filled bumps.
Psychological impact: Nail-biting can be a sign of stress, anxiety, or nervousness. Continuously engaging in this habit might worsen these conditions or create emotional distress due to the cycle of nail damage and self-consciousness.
Stomach problems: Swallowing nail fragments can lead to gastrointestinal issues, such as stomach pain or indigestion.
Breaking the habit of nail-biting can be challenging, but it’s essential to minimize the potential dangers and negative consequences associated with this behavior. Finding healthier ways to manage stress or anxiety, such as practicing relaxation techniques, seeking support from friends or professionals, or using bitter-tasting nail polishes designed to discourage nail-biting, can be helpful in overcoming this habit. If it becomes an uncontrollable or severe issue, consider seeking guidance from a healthcare professional or therapist.
