What Your Nails Are Trying to Tell You About Your Health

5.Bitten Nails

Although they are self-inflicted, the act of biting nails—often the skin around them—may sometimes be the mind's means of communicating anxiety, which itself can range from annoying to incapacitating. While for some people nail biting is just a residual habit, for others it can be an obsessive activity from which the underlying reason should be addressed. Although this disorder, sometimes referred to as onychophagia, affects persons at all ages, children and young adults are especially prone to have it. The behaviour can cause major nail damage, infections, and possibly dental issues. Apart from the obvious consequences, constant nail biting can affect social contacts and self-esteem. Cognitive behavioural therapy, habit-reversal training, and stress management strategies could all be part of treatments. Some people discover success either keeping their hands busy with stress balls or fidget toys or with bitter-tasting nail paints. Working with a mental health expert can assist in severe circumstances address the underlying anxiety or compulsive behaviours.