Chew and Swallow Your Fingernails: What Happens Next?

Accidentally swallowing chewed-up fingernails is a common experience, but what exactly happens to them once they make their way through your digestive system? This article will explore the journey of your fingernails through your body, from esophagus to digestive tract, and ultimately to elimination. Additionally, we will discuss the potential health risks associated with habitual nail swallowing.

The Composition of Fingernails

Fingernails are primarily composed of keratin, a tough, fibrous protein that is also found in hair and skin. This natural armor makes fingernails resistant to breaking down in the stomach or intestines, unlike other types of food. Understanding the composition of fingernails is key to understanding why they pass through the digestive system relatively unscathed.

Passage Through the Digestive System

When you swallow chewed-up fingernails, they will travel through your digestive tract in the following sequence:

Esophagus: The fingernails begin their journey in the esophagus, the muscular tube that connects the throat to the stomach. Stomach: In the stomach, digestive juices and enzymes break down food, but the strong and fibrous nature of the fingernail causes it to remain largely intact. Small Intestine: The fingernails continue their journey through the small intestine, where the majority of nutrient absorption occurs. However, due to their composition, they will remain largely undamaged. Large Intestine: In the large intestine, water and essential nutrients are absorbed, but the fingernails will continue to pass through intact. Elimination: Eventually, the fingernails will be excreted in the form of stool, often visible but generally harmless.

Digestion and Keratin

The keratin in fingernails is highly resistant to the digestive enzymes that break down food. This means that even in the acidic and enzyme-rich environment of the stomach, the fingernails are likely to remain largely intact. This process ensures that they are expelled from the body without causing significant damage to the digestive system.

Potential Health Risks of Habitual Nail Swallowing

While swallowing a single fingernail is generally not harmful, habitual nail biting or swallowing can pose several risks:

Gastrointestinal Infections: Fingernails can harbor bacteria and other microorganisms, and habitual swallowing can lead to gastrointestinal infections. Inflammation and Ulcers: Regularly swallowing sharp, brittle nails can cause minor cuts and abrasions to the mucous membranes, leading to inflammation and potential ulcers. Clogged Digestive Tract: In rare cases, large pieces of toenails or fingernails can obstruct the digestive tract, leading to severe health issues that require medical attention.

It is important to address the underlying causes of nail biting or swallowing, whether due to stress, anxiety, or a compulsion. Consulting a healthcare professional can provide valuable insights and guidance on managing these behaviors.

Takeaways

Chewed-up fingernails travel through the digestive system relatively unscathed due to their keratin composition. Habitual nail swallowing can pose significant health risks, including gastrointestinal infections and digestive tract obstructions. Addressing the underlying causes of nail biting is crucial for overall digestive health and well-being.

Further Reading

Explore more articles on digestive health and nail biting to gain a deeper understanding of these topics:

What Happens to Chewed-Up Fingernails If You Swallow Them? What Happens If You Swallow A Fingernail - Better Together What Happens If You Swallow a Fingernail You Won't Believe!

Contact Us

If you have any further questions or concerns about nail biting or swallowing, contact our healthcare professionals for personalized advice and support.