Man dies from heart attack brought on by biting his nails
A MAN died from a heart attack after getting blood poisoning from biting his nails, an inquest heard.
John Gardener’s habit became so severe one finger turned sceptic and in September he had the tip amputated. He died eight days later.
The 40-year-old, an amateur football referee from Wigan, Greater Manchester, had suffered ill health through being diabetic and in 2011 had his lower right leg amputated.
John had been treated for anxiety and depression – and his nail-biting intensified. GP Dr Daniel Vernon told Bolton Coroners’ Court John’s fingernails were “in constant poor condition”, causing him to lose feeling and sensation in them.
Coroner Alan Walsh, recording a narrative verdict, said: “His death happened so suddenly. John had a difficult life with diabetes.”
After the case, a family spokesman gave notice of action against Wigan Infirmary. His mother Jean, 60, said: “There could have been more done to help him. It’s just devastating.”