Nail-Biting Habit Lands US Woman in Surgery, Nearly Costs Her Finger

A young American woman who had bitten her nails habitually since childhood nearly lost her finger due to a severe infection, according to reports.

People magazine reported on the 9th (local time) that Gabby, 21, who has a nail-biting habit, recently experienced an unexpected medical crisis.

Last month, Gabby bit her nails and surrounding hangnails as usual, only to experience abnormal swelling in her finger within a day. She visited a hospital and was prescribed antibiotics and ointment, but her condition did not improve.

She eventually underwent surgery at an ingrown nail specialty clinic to incise beneath the nail and drain the abscess. Despite this, her finger turned deep purple with severe pain continuing, requiring a second surgery under general anesthesia to remove infected tissue.

Medical staff conducted tissue and blood tests out of concern that the infection had spread to the bone, potentially requiring amputation. Fortunately, the diagnosis indicated that no additional surgery or amputation was necessary.

"I didn't know that nail-biting could cause such a serious problem," Gabby said. "I wanted to raise awareness for others through my case."

Nail-biting is medically classified as a habitual behavior known as onychophagia. It is known to affect 20-30% of the global population and is particularly common among children and adolescents. The problem is that damaged skin around the nails creates an environment where bacteria can easily penetrate.

When oral bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus enter through wounds, they can develop into cellulitis or abscesses. In severe cases, the infection can penetrate to the bone, leading to osteomyelitis, which may necessitate amputation.

The American Academy of Dermatology classifies nail-biting not as a simple habit but as a behavior that causes skin damage and infection, recommending behavioral therapy or professional intervention for persistent cases.