Raphael Akpan, a medical expert,
has warned nail biters to stop the habit saying such people are more vulnerable
to contracting various diseases.
Akpan said that such diseases
range from nail infections, warts to teeth weakening.
NAN reports that nail biting is a
habit whereby a person bites his or her nail using the teeth.
“Nail biting is a common habit
that affects people of all ages that they may have picked up as a child which
many people do not pay attention to, but very harmful,” he said.
“Your nails are an ideal location
for bacteria to thrive, and that includes potentially pathogenic bacteria like
Salmonella and E. coli.
“These are found underside of the
nail tips.
“As one bites his or her nails,
those bacteria can easily be transferred into ones’ mouth and the rest of his
or her body, where they may lead to infections.
“One’s fingernails may actually
be twice as dirty as the fingers, considering that they are difficult to keep
clean, making this a prime point of transfer for infectious organisms.”
Akpan added that nail biters were
obnoxious to skin infections which might lead to swelling around the nail that
had to be removed through surgery.
“Nail biters are susceptible to
Paronychia, that is, a skin infection that occurs around your nail, they are
also exposed to warts and dental problems.
“As you chew your nails,
bacteria, yeast and other microorganisms can pierce through tiny abrasions.
“This can lead to swelling,
redness and pus around your nail and this painful condition may have to be
drained surgically.
“Warts on your fingers caused by
Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) are common among chronic nail biters. These warts
can easily spread to your mouth and lips as you bite your nails.’’
Akpan added that nail-biting also
could interfere with proper dental occlusion or the manner in which your upper
and lower teeth comes together when you close your mouth.
“Your teeth may shift out of
their proper positions, become misshapen, wear down prematurely, and become
weakened if you bite your nails over time,’’ he said.
He advised nail-bitters to always
engage in activities that could keep them away from the habit.
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