4 The hidden dangers of biting one's own nails

Not a few people have the habit of biting their own nails. Whether it's a child to adulthood, this habit is sometimes difficult to break. However, it turns out that there is a hidden danger from frequent nail biting.

The dangers of nail biting

This habit in medical terms is often called onychophagia. As reported by the Mayo Clinic, nail biting can actually have a negative impact on your health.

1. Infection

Fingernail infections can occur if you bite your nails a lot, especially if they are quite large. When your nails are pulled out, the smooth skin under the nails will show. Well, this section is very susceptible to bacteria that can cause infection.

The most common infection in this area is paronychia. Paronychia is a skin infection that appears around the nails of the fingers and toes. This condition is caused by bacterial and fungal infections.

Of course, this skin disorder can be cured by stopping this habit. In addition, you can soak your hands in warm water to reduce pain and swelling.

2. Periungual warts

These types of warts usually occur in people who like to bite their nails. In general, small warts will not cause the slightest pain. However, as the warts grow larger and spread, the pain increases. Apart from being sick, the appearance around the nails will look bad.

This condition is usually caused by HPV (human papillomavirus) which can enter through a scratch or wound. Therefore periungual warts can occur in those of you who often bite your nails.

Now, because nail biting can actually have quite serious consequences, such as warts, of course there are several ways to overcome this, such as using salicylic acid or antigen injection.

3. Herpetic whitlow

Sources: Science Photo Library

Another danger of biting your nails is getting herpes on the hand or herpetic whitlow. This disease is caused by the herpes simplex virus types 1 and type 2. Well, this virus then enters through the exposed skin of the fingers exposed to HSV fluids. Usually occurs if you are suffering from oral herpes disease.

The most common symptoms of this disease are fever and numbness in the infected finger. If you experience these signs due to frequent nail biting, consult your doctor immediately for further treatment.

4. Problems with teeth

Apart from damaging your fingernails, this habit also harms the health of your teeth and mouth. Apparently, the position of your teeth can shift out of place and also cause tooth or tooth enamel to break. Not only that, your gums are also at high risk of infection and swelling.

5. Inflammation of the nails

The most common danger of biting your nails is inflammation and swelling of your fingernails. This is caused by your saliva which contains a chemical composition to break down fats and food molecules. Well, because the goal is to facilitate digestion, the saliva that comes out when biting your nails harms the skin of your fingers. This condition can cause inflammation, chapped lips, and damage to the skin around your nails.

6. Abnormal nail growth

Apart from having a bad effect on your health, the habit of biting your nails also makes your nails grow ingrown. The generative coating on your nails called the "matrix" is where the foundation is when your nails grow. If this habit is continued, the lining can be damaged and cause ingrown growths or abnormalities in the nails.

7. Stomach ache

This habit of biting your nails can also harm your stomach, you know. This is because the bacteria on your hands usually like to hide behind your nails.

Therefore, when you bite your nails, it is not impossible for these bacteria to enter your digestive tract. Starting from the flu to stomach viruses which are quite serious you can experience if you don't stop this habit.

Now, after knowing the dangers of biting your own nails and its impact on your health, are you still willing to continue the habit?