7 subconscious actions can shorten your life by 20 years

When people are bored, nervous or anxious, they often do subconscious little actions such as biting their nails and licking their lips. Recently, a popular health website published an article pointing out that these small actions may seem harmless, but sometimes they are detrimental to health.

Nail biting

Dr. Michael Shapiro, a dermatologist in New York, said that biting your nails when you are nervous may damage the nails and surrounding skin, causing bleeding or infection, and may also cause bacteria to be transmitted from the hands to the mouth. Putting tape on your fingers or applying chili oil can help correct this bad habit.

Scratching your head

Dr. Arel Ostad, a dermatologist in New York City, said that frequent scratching and pulling of the hair can damage the roots and cause hair loss or infection.

Licking lips

Dr. Whitney Bowe, a dermatologist in New York City, says licking your lips when you're nervous can deposit digestive enzymes on your skin, leading to cheilitis and making your lips more susceptible to dryness and cracking. This type of people should look for healthier ways to relieve stress, such as exercise and singing.

Biting the pen

Dr. Ted Myatt, a medical expert at the University of Rhode Island, said that there are many pathogens lurking in pen tips, and biting the pen tips can easily lead to digestive tract diseases or influenza. Additionally, there may be damage to the teeth and gums.

Love touching face

Jessica Krent, professor of clinical dermatology at the State University of New York Downstate Medical Center, said that touching your face or picking pimples with your hands can often cause damage to the epidermis and infection. Once it bleeds, it can easily leave permanent scars. It is recommended to use non-irritating topical ointments or moisturizers for local treatment.

Twisting the neck

Forcibly twisting your neck will cause the spine to make a "cracking" sound. Although this may make you feel relaxed, over time it will loosen the surrounding ligaments and make them more susceptible to injury, wear out small joints, and lead to diseases such as arthritis.

Grit your teeth

When under stress, many people will "clench their teeth". In fact, this may cause teeth to be broken or fractured, and in severe cases, it may even cause damage to the jaw joint.