Paronychia involves infection of the skin surrounding a fingernail. In most cases, the infected tissue becomes tender and sore with evident swelling. The common culprit for acute cases of paronychia is staphylococcus bacteria and then followed by streptococcus. As for chronic cases of paronychia, it is usually due to a fungus rather than a bacterium.
Why paronychia occurs
Cracking or splitting a nail, trauma, excessive trimming of the nails or being smashed by a heavy object will allow bacteria to enter and trigger an infection. This type is called acute paronychia.
Individuals who have jobs that require frequent exposure of their hands to solvents, irritants or acrylics or require their hands to be immersed in water are at high risk for chronic paronychia. Those who have chronic dry skin, history of contact dermatitis, eczema and those who bite their nails also face a higher risk.
Individuals who have diabetes are more susceptible to nail infection than those who do not have the condition. Certain diseases that can compromise the immune system are also at risk to develop paronychia.
Do I have paronychia?
When it comes to acute paronychia, there is initially a crack in the nail fold or trauma to the nail. The finger will start to throb and turn red while the skin surrounding the nail starts to swell. Oftentimes, pus will accumulate beneath the skin close to the affected nail.
With the chronic type, there is tenderness around the nail. The skin may turn red and slightly swell. The area surrounding the nail becomes moist. Take note that several nails on the same hand might be affected with chronic paronychia.
Diagnosis
In most cases, the diagnosis is made based on the appearance of the nail and the surrounding skin. A sample of the tissue might be taken for analysis if the doctor suspects that the cause is a fungus.
Treatment for paronychia
For acute cases, you can soak the affected finger or toe in a basin filled with warm water for 15 minutes at several times throughout the day. In case the infection persists or pus develops, the doctor might drain the infected area with a small-sized cut. The individual is instructed to keep the finger or toe elevated as much as possible. The affected finger or toe should also be soaked in warm water a number of times throughout the day. In some cases, an oral antibiotic is prescribed. The symptoms usually clear up within 2 weeks.
As for chronic paronychia due to fungus, the doctor will prescribe an antifungal medication that is applied directly on the nail. The medication should be applied on a daily basis, usually for several weeks and the skin and nail must be kept dry at all times.
Prevention
Proper care of the nails drastically reduces the risk for developing an infection. Avoid chewing on nails or pick the skin surrounding them. The nails should be trimmed regularly using clippers or manicure scissors, but avoid cutting them too short.
When trimming your nails, they should be trimmed with a rounded edge while toenails are trimmed straight across. Trimming nails after showering or bathing makes them easier to cut. In addition, avoid trimming the cuticles. If they are trimmed, it might provide an entry point for bacteria or fungi.