Nail biting can lead to fungal infections

People who bite their nails are more likely to get a fungal nail infection than those who don’t. This is because nail biters often injure the cuticle or the skin surrounding the nail, creating numerous entry points for harmful fungi to invade the body.

New York dermatologists Drs. Herbert P. Goodheart of Mount Sinai Hospital and Hendrik Uyttendaele of Columbia University Medical Center said this bad habit should be avoided since the cuticle protects the nail and the skin from bacteria and other possible sources of infection. Once the fungus sets in, it can be difficult to remove and can eventually damage and disfigure your nails. Complications include pain when walking, typing, and writing.

"Nail-biting can cause your fingertips to be red and sore and your cuticles to bleed. Nail-biting also increases your risk for infections around your nail beds and in your mouth. Dental problems and infections of the gums can be caused by nail-biting. Long-term nail-biting can also interfere with normal nail growth and cause deformed nails," warned WebMD.

Nail biting or onychophagia is a common response to stress, excitement, boredom, or inactivity that affects people of all ages. It is seen in about 50 percent of kids between the ages of 10 and 18 and in 23 percent of young adults aged 18 to 22. By age 30, most people stop biting their nails but 10 percent of men continue this habit.

Children may bite their nails in response to problems at home or at school. Others do it when they quit smoking. Some bite their nails without realizing it when they’re involved in other activities like reading, talking on the phone or watching television.

Famous nail biters include former US First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, singer Lisa Marie Presley, and English singer/songwriter Phil Collins. American writer and poet Dorothy Parker, known for her caustic wit and wisecracks, was also a nail biter as evidenced in her famous quote: "I'm never going to be famous. My name will never be writ large on the roster of Those Who Do Things. I don't do any thing. Not one single thing. I used to bite my nails, but I don't even do that any more."

To stop nail biting, here are some quick tips from Somasin AFS, the safe and natural way to stop stubborn fungal nail infections and restore your nails’ healthy shine and luster:

* Keep your nails clean and trimmed. Get a regular manicure but choose a clean nail salon or bring your own instruments if possible. Better still, carry a nail clipper with you always. If your nails look good, you’re less likely to ruin them.

* Keep your hands busy when you’re on the phone or watching TV. Try doodling or hold on to the remote control. Squeezing on a stress ball, silly putty or clay can also draw your attention away from your nails.

* Chew on something else. Keep a pack of gum or mints handy to chew on when you feel the urge to bite your nails.

* Paint a bitter-tasting polish on your nails. The awful taste will remind you to stop every time you start to bite your nails.

Unlike other oral antifungal drugs, Somasin’s twin approach strengthens your immune system and effectively eliminates nail fungi in just seven days. For more information, visit http://www.somasin.com.

Janet Martin is an avid health and fitness enthusiast and published author. Many of her insightful articles can be found at the premier online news magazine http://www.thearticleinsiders.com.