by Reza Joshi

Created on: October 30, 2009

Nail biting is a problematic behavior which has various forms. Technically speaking, nail biting is called onychophagia. Typically this behavior defect begins between the ages of five and ten. One of the most noteworthy and surprising facts about nail biting is its high instance. Crossing every social and economic barrier, it is on the increase in the fast moving modern world.

Health risk

Though nail biting may not seem to be a serious disease, it has serious consequences physically as well as psychologically. One of my relative children, who is just five years old, used to bite even the nails on the feet until they bleed. Nail biting is the signal of some body disorder. It can result in short, ragged nails, and lead to damaged cuticles as well as bleeding around the edges of the nails. It can cause infection and diseases if it is not checked and treated in time.

EIGHT HEALTH RISKS OF NAIL BITING

1) Nail biting is the danger signal of health

Confidence is the backbone of human life. Nail biting id the signal of lack of confidence. It exposes the mental imbalance and inner conflicts of a person. Nail biting is also associated with some health problems which have to be investigated.

2) Nail biting leads to nervous tension

According to researches, one of the main reasons people find themselves biting their nails is due to nervous tension.

3) Biting nail leads to diseases

Even without our knowledge harmful microorganisms and bacteria may happen to live and multiply beneath our nails. It is even possible to inadvertently store thread worm larvae via dirt and dust which may also get lodged underneath the nails. When a person bites his nail, these bacteria or microorganisms may readily be transmitted to his mouth and cause diseases.

4) Nail biting can even diminish your IQ

Biting nails may cause to swallow lead particles found in the ground soil. It has been proved that lead poisoning can significantly damage the IQ levels. This may affect the studies.

5) Nail biting affects the teeth

By biting the nails teeth can be affected directly or indirectly. It may damage the teeth. It may affect the gums and cause diseases related to dental problems, such as gingival injury.

6) It damages the nail cuticle

Nail biters bite the nails so far back on the nail bed that only a small amount of actual nail is left, and the skin around them is wounded and causes bleeding. It may damage the outer skin or cuticle region of the nail and injure it seriously. It can cause irritation and pain leading to infection.

7) Nail biting shows that your body lacks minerals

It has been found out that one of the reasons for the human body to go for biting nails is the lack of calcium and magnesium in the body. It is the warning call of the body to replace them in the body. If neglected, it will lead to further complications.

8) Nail biting may cause inferiority complex

It is very embarrassing to see people biting their nails and keeping their hands in their mouths in public places. The nails look messy, ugly and fearful after they are bit. This will definitely cause inferiority complex and failure in performances!

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