Chewed nails and cuticles wound the skin on one of its most exposed areas. Chronic nail-biting has been known to cause osteomyelitis of finger bones due to staphylococcus aureus from direct spread through macerated tissue. After ablutions, paint nails with Tincture of Myrrh, daily.
A common habit in children during their early years at school. Most children grow out of it, although nailbiting sometimes continues as a nervous habit in adolescents and adults.
Various preparations with an unpleasant taste can be painted on the nails as a preventive measure.
A common practice in schoolchildren, most of whom gradually give it up as they approach adolescence. Too much signi?cance should therefore not be attached to it; in itself it does no harm, and punishment or restraining devices are not needed. It is a manifestation of tension or insecurity, the cause of which should be removed. In some people the habit is carried into adulthood.
A splitting of the skin (cuticle) at the side of a ?ngernail. In manual workers it is usually caused by trauma, but ISCHAEMIA of the ?ngers (see also RAYNAUD’S DISEASE) may predispose to the condition. Secondary infection and in?ammation may make hang-nail a very tender condition; treatment consists of reducing trauma, and the use of EMOLLIENTS and ANTIBIOTICS if necessary.... hang-nail
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