Nail biters fully understand that their habit is similar to an addiction because it is as testing to quit as a nicotine or alcohol addiction
. But what they do not comprehend is the fact that precisely like an alcohol addiction it also offers health risks.
Having knowledge of these health hazards can provide assistance to nail biters in the process of overcoming this habit.
Some disadvantages of nail biting are given below.
The most common is the transmission of germs. Microorganisms and bacteria are transferred from the finger nails to the mouth. The germs that gather on the skin under the nails are collected by the hands while touching numerous objects. Every day, objects like subway poles and public toilet door handles are touched by the hands and the germs on these objects ultimately end up in the mouths of nail biters!
A study was carried out in London Underground Station where they took samples of skin under the nails. They found facial waste in a high percentage of the samples.
The likelihood of catching a nail infection is another thing to worry about. A yellow and green tint appears on the nail which is set right after many long months. It is painful to put even a small amount of pressure on the nail which makes it problematic to do everyday chores. Holding a glass in your hand is the simplest of tasks but with a nail infection it can cause anguish. After enduring suffering on a daily basis, you find that people are shunning you because they want to avoid having physical contact with that disgusting looking nail, leaving you in a pitiful condition.
The shocking piece of information is that nail biting has an undesirable impact on teeth as well. It can affect the process of their growth. It can be the source of chipped teeth also. Different types of growths like warts and lumps can occur because of the nails constantly remaining wet. This moist environment is the perfect place for fungi, bacteria etc. to grow and flourish. You need to be aware and realistic about what the consequences of nail biting can be. Otherwise you may not have the motivation to make it through all the way to the end.
The author who has been a nail biter in the past has complete knowledge of this habit and has gifted an entire website to this issue merely to help people who are struggling to quit.