Which nail condition can be worsened by stress?

• A. Nail fungus
• B. Nail biting
• C. Nail ridges
• D. Nail discoloration

Answer: (B)

Nail biting, also known as onychophagia, is a condition that can be significantly influenced by stress. Individuals who experience high levels of anxiety or stress may resort to nail biting as a coping mechanism, which can lead to damage of the nails and surrounding tissue. This behavior may be an unconscious response to stress, providing a temporary relief from feelings of tension.

Other nail conditions, while they can be affected by various factors, do not have the same direct link to emotional stress as nail biting. For instance, nail fungus typically arises from exposure to fungi and is more related to hygiene and environmental factors rather than psychological stress. Nail ridges can be caused by various physical conditions or nutritional deficiencies, while nail discoloration can stem from many causes including trauma or underlying health issues but not primarily from stress itself. Therefore, nail biting is the condition most closely associated with stress.