A shocking medical case has been published online that demonstrates the dangerous consequences of nail biting. According to "Typovi Medic", in a patient who suffered from a severe form of onychophagia for many years, the habit developed into chronic wounds, infections, and ultimately bone destruction.
Doctors report that due to years of damage to the nails and surrounding skin, the patient developed osteomyelitis. X-rays clearly show deformities and partial absence of phalanges. The damage was so severe that surgeons had to amputate several phalanges of the fingers.
Doctors emphasize that onychophagia is not just a habit, but often a manifestation of anxiety disorders, depression, or symptoms of the obsessive-compulsive spectrum. Constant traumatization of the skin and nails creates conditions for bacteria to penetrate deep tissues, and infections can spread to the bones.
In cases of severe lesions, the risk of amputation increases dramatically, especially if the patient's behavior is accompanied by episodes of self-aggression.
Doctors explain that treatment should be comprehensive: surgeons and infectious disease specialists eliminate the physical consequences, but without the participation of a psychiatrist or psychotherapist, it is impossible to overcome the cause of onychophagia. It is the mental component that determines the course of the disease and the risks of repeated lesions.
Doctors urge people to pay attention to mental health and not ignore even seemingly "minor" habits that can have serious consequences for the entire body.
