Health - Wellness
Why Picking Your Nose Is Riskier Than You Think
By ASHLEY WELCH
Nose picking is a disgusting habit to many, but a 1995 study from in the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry found that 91 percent of people admitted to nose picking, with 75 percent saying "almost everyone does it." Nose picking may be done out of boredom or as a nervous habit, and it can also be caused by a behavioral condition called rhinotillexomania.
Nose picking comes with several health risks, such as spreading infections, bacteria, and viruses, plus damage to the nasal cavity, nosebleeds, and septum damage. Infectious disease specialist Dr. Paul Pottinge told CNN that nose picking can "transfer germs from the fingertips into the nose, which is the exact opposite of what one wants."
If you pick your nose because it's itchy or irritated, saline sprays and rinses can help. If nose picking is due to boredom or habit, try placing a bandage on your dominant finger; when you feel the bandage prod your nostril, you'll know to put your hand down. If picking is tied to stress or anxiety, try to alleviate it in a way that works for you, or use fidget toys.