Nail-biting habit got you down? Here’s why you should kick this habit for good

Health risks of nail-biting: Constant nail-biting can damage the nail bed, leading to irregular nail growth or even permanent deformities (Image: Canva)

Do you find yourself biting your nails in the middle of a tense meeting, during a suspenseful movie, or while waiting for that important phone call? Maybe it’s something you catch yourself doing absentmindedly during a boring lecture or when you’re stuck in traffic. Whether you’re feeling anxious, bored, or just need something to do with your hands, nail-biting is a habit that many struggle to quit. But while it might seem harmless, this nervous tic can have serious consequences.

Nail-biting, also known as onychophagia, is a common habit that often begins in childhood. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), it can be triggered by stress, anxiety, or even boredom. While some see it as a way to cope with these emotions, the habit can also be linked to more serious underlying psychological conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Here are 5 reasons why nail-biting is harmful and why it’s time to kick the habit for good:

Infection risk: Biting your nails can expose you to harmful bacteria and viruses that are hiding under your nails. When you bite your nails, these pathogens can easily enter your body, leading to infections in your mouth, gums, and even your stomach. Common infections include paronychia, a painful condition where the skin around the nail becomes infected, and it can require medical treatment if left unchecked.

Dental damage: Nail-biting can wreak havoc on your teeth. The repeated pressure can chip, crack, or wear down your teeth over time. It can also lead to misalignment of your teeth and cause damage to dental work, such as fillings or braces. This damage can result in costly dental procedures that could have been avoided.

Nail deformities: Constant nail-biting can damage the nail bed, leading to irregular nail growth or even permanent deformities. The trauma from biting can cause your nails to grow back abnormally, with ridges, splits, or discoloured patches. Over time, this can make your nails more susceptible to other issues, such as fungal infections.

Emotional toll: While nail-biting is often a response to stress or anxiety, it can actually exacerbate these feelings. The physical damage caused by nail-biting can lead to self-consciousness and embarrassment, especially if your nails become noticeably damaged or infected. This can create a cycle of stress and nail-biting that’s hard to break.

Personality:  Nail-biting can negatively impact your personality. In social or professional settings, it may be viewed as a sign of nervousness or lack of self-control. Over time, this habit can affect your confidence and how you are perceived by colleagues, friends, and family members.