Onychophagia (nail biting disease)

Hello to All

I know this topic may seem a bit disgusting to start with, but I think that it will interest you.It wasn't with this kind of subject which I wanted to start this blog, but it is a very important aspect that we must take into account concerning the health of our hands and nails.


-MJ-

Introduction

Nail biting is a bad habit that many people have. It may result in transportation of germs that live beneath the surface of the nail to the mouth. A compulsive rodent may not only bite their nails, but also the skin around the cuticle and possibly breaking the skin. Broken skin is susceptible to infections from microbes and viruses. 

Nail biting can also be negative for restricting the use of hands, a compulsive nail rodent may have restricted his ability to work (eg writing, typing, drawing, playing stringed instruments, driving) because of the damage done to the nail or surrounding skin. A long habit of nail biting can cause wear of the incisor tooth enamel and can cause cavities in these areas.

According to psychologists, this habit of biting your nails - the scientific name deonicofagia - most of the times, acts as a kind of unconscious to relieve feelings of anxiety and insecurity.

Besides leaving ugly hands, the act of biting your nails facilitates the entry of various bacteria in the human body. The "rodents" are also susceptible to contracting fungal infections in the fingers.

Tips to help you stop biting your nails

Stop nail biting involves a lot of discipline and willpower, that's because this habit is compulsive.

Girls can keep the nails with colored glaze - which often serves as a reminder that they can not bite their nails.


Another alternative is to use nail polishes which have a bitter taste.

Olive oil or drying oil for enamels can also work, since these oils soften the nails and stop the act of chewing. Porcelain or acrylic nails can also be used. Another tip is to put pepper on the nail, so that when you chew them, your mouth will be burning. This will cause a behavioral conditioning encouraging you to stop. 


Willpower and patience are important to overcome the urge to eat nails. Your hands and nails health - Will Thank You !