Infected nail fold (paronychia)

Overview

Sudden infections are usually bacterial. Long-lasting ones in people whose hands are often wet may be yeast.

Symptoms

Common signs:

• Red, swollen skin around a nail
• Red, swollen, painful skin around a nail

Less common

• Pus
• Throbbing pain

When to get medical care

Causes

Bacteria or yeast in a break in skin.

Does it spread or run in families?

• The illness itself usually isn't passed to others, but some germs that cause it can spread.
• Washing hands often helps.

Who is more likely to get it

• Nail biting
• Diabetes

Possible complications

• Cellulitis

Diagnosis

A clinician looks at the nail.

Treatment

Soak and protect.

Self-care

• Soak in warm water 3 to 4 times a day for 15 minutes
• Keep it clean and dry
• Don't bite or pick nails

Medicines

Medicines that may help:

OwieClear doesn't give doses: follow the label or your healthcare professional. Medicine names here are examples, not a full list.

A clinician can drain pus.

Prevention

To prevent:

• Don't bite nails
• Wear gloves for wet work

Which doctor treats this

• Start with your primary care provider (family doctor or internist).
• They may send you to a dermatologist (skin doctor).

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• If you're pregnant or planning to be, tell your prenatal provider about this condition.
• Some skin medicines, like isotretinoin and retinoid creams, aren't safe in pregnancy.
• Some infections can pass to the baby during pregnancy or birth. Tell your provider if you've been exposed.
• Don't start or stop any medicine on your own. Some are safe in pregnancy and some need to be changed.
• Ask before taking any pain reliever. The FDA advises avoiding ibuprofen and naproxen after 20 weeks unless your doctor says to.
• Breastfeeding: Most medicines are fine, but ask. The NIH LactMed database lists what's known about each one.

Outlook

Heals.

Research studies

Research studies test new ways to find and treat health problems. Some are looking for volunteers. Talk with your doctor before joining one.

Search ClinicalTrials.gov for studies on Infected nail fold (paronychia)