The ‘minor’ habit of nail biting can prove costly: 21-year-old girl’s finger came to the point of cutting it, had to undergo surgery.

Nail biting is a habit that we often start doing unknowingly during times of stress or boredom. Most people ignore it considering it just a ‘dirty habit’, but this small carelessness can also prove fatal. Recently, one such shocking case has come to light, where due to nail biting, such a serious infection spread in a girl’s finger that doctors had to perform emergency surgery.

Trouble started from a minor wound

This case is of a 21 year old girl, who had a long habit of nail biting since childhood. One day the skin at the edge of his nail (hangnail) cracked a little, which he considered normal and left it. But gradually swelling started increasing at that place and unbearable pain started. The girl had no idea that the bacteria in her mouth were posing a big threat.

What is paronychia? which caused the finger to rot

When the pain became uncontrollable and the girl went to the doctor, it was found that she Paronychia Has become a victim of serious bacterial infection named. Actually, while chewing nails, oral bacteria enter the body through small wounds around the nails.

Nail biting damages the skin’s natural protective barrier, which provides an easy way for bacteria to spread. The same thing happened in this case too – the bacteria from the mouth attacked the inner tissues of the finger and pus started filling there.

Antibiotics also failed, finally surgery was advised

Initially doctors gave antibiotics to prevent infection, but there was no improvement in the condition. Gradually the pus in the finger took the form of a big lump (cyst). The pain increased so much that even moving the hand became difficult. Doctors warned that if the infection was not cleared soon, the finger might have to be amputated. Ultimately, surgeons had to make an incision in the finger and remove all the infection and pus that had accumulated inside.

Experts warn: small habit, big danger

Hand specialists are surprised to see this case. Experts say that it is rare for nail biting at such a young age to require surgery, but not impossible. This incident is a warning that:

• Nail biting not only spoils the structure of nails but can also cause serious skin diseases and internal infections.

• There are thousands of types of bacteria in the mouth which become fatal when they come in contact with an open wound.

• Not maintaining cleanliness of hands and biting nails can also affect your immunity.

How to leave this habit?

If you also have the habit of biting nails, then try to leave it today. Keep your nails short, apply bitter-tasting nail paint, or use stress balls when stressed. Remember, it is not wise to risk your health just to satisfy a moment of boredom.