A medical expert, Dr. Raphael Akpan, has warned that persons with fingernail biting habit are exposing themselves to various health hazards ranging from nail infections to warts and teeth weakening.
Akpan told the News Agency of Nigeria on Thursday in Ilorin, Kwara State that nail biting habit could be more harmful than expected.
Akpan said: “Nail biting is a common habit that affects people of all ages that might have been picked up as a child.
“Your fingernail is an ideal location for bacteria to thrive, and that includes potentially pathogenic bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli, which are found underside of your nail tips.
“As you bite your nails, those bacteria easily transfer into your mouth and the rest of your body, where they may lead to infections.
“Your fingernails may actually be twice as dirty as your fingers, considering they’re difficult to keep clean, making this a prime point of transfer for infectious organisms.”
Akpan added that “nail biters” are vulnerable to skin infections, which may lead to swelling around the nail that have to be removed through surgery.
He said: “Nail biters are susceptible to paronychia, that is a skin infection that occurs around your nails.
“As you chew your nails, bacteria, yeast and other microorganisms can enter through tiny tears or abrasions, leading to swelling, redness and pus around your nail and this painful condition may have to be drained surgically.”
The doctor said nail biters are also exposed to warts and dental problems.
Akpan also said: “Warts on your fingers caused by Human Papilloma Virus, are common among chronic nail biters. These warts can easily spread to your mouth and lips as you bite your nails.
“Nail biting can also interfere with proper dental occlusion, or the manner in which your upper and lower teeth come together when you close your mouth.
“Your teeth may shift out of their proper position, become misshapen, wear down prematurely and become weakened if you bite your nails over time.
“So, it is advisable for nail bitters to try much as possible to engage in activities that can keep them away from biting their nails.”
R&D Health Fingernail biting habit dangerous to health – Expert
