How Nail Biting Effects Your Health?

By Bharati Kumari
02 Aug 2023, 21:14 IST

Nail biting, or onychophagia, is a common habit that can negatively affect your health, both physically and mentally. Here are some ways nail biting can affect your health; swipe to know more!

DAMAGED NAIL CUTICLES

Biting nails weakens them and harms cuticles, leading to breakage and infection risks.

STOMACH ISSUE

If you accidentally swallow nail fragments, it can irritate your digestive tract and lead to stomach discomfort or gastrointestinal issues.

DENTAL ISSUE

Constantly biting your nails can lead to dental issues, such as chipped or cracked teeth. It can also pressure the front teeth and jaw, leading to alignment problems.

STRESS AND ANXIETY

Continuously biting nails can become an unhealthy coping mechanism for emotional distress, making it difficult to break from the cycle.

PARONYCHIA

Paronychia is an infection that occurs around the nail fold. Nail biting can increase the chance of developing this painful condition

CONCLUSION

If you have a habit of biting your nails that causes harm, it's recommended that you seek assistance from a healthcare or mental health professional.