Liam Carter
If you've noticed swelling around your fingernail, you may be experiencing paronychia, a common nail infection. Paronychia is an infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail, often caused by bacteria or fungi entering the skin through cuts in the cuticle or nail fold. It can cause throbbing pain, redness, warmth, and swelling, and sometimes results in a collection of pus under the skin. The good news is that paronychia usually clears up with proper treatment and doesn't typically cause serious health issues. However, it's important to be aware of more severe cases, which can lead to permanent nail damage or even spread to deeper tissues and bones.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Infection | Bacterial, Fungal, Candida |
| Symptoms | Throbbing pain, redness, warmth, swelling, tenderness, nail changes (different colour, detached, abnormally shaped) |
| Diagnosis | Visual inspection, pus culture |
| Treatment | Antibiotics, antifungal medication, soaking in warm water, drainage of pus |
| Prevention | Keep nails trimmed, avoid nail biting, avoid cuticle cutting, wear gloves when handling chemicals/detergents |
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What You'll Learn
Paronychia, a bacterial nail infection
Paronychia is a bacterial nail infection that usually results from bacteria entering broken skin near the cuticle and nail fold, causing an infection. The cuticle is the skin at the base of the nail, and the nail fold is where the skin and nail come together. Paronychia can affect both fingernails and toenails.
Bacterial paronychia usually appears suddenly, with symptoms including a painful, red, swollen area around the nail, often at the cuticle or at the site of a hangnail or other injury. There may also be pus-filled blisters, which can be drained and sent to a laboratory to determine the type of bacteria causing the infection.
The infection can be treated with antibiotics to kill the infection and prevent it from spreading. In some cases, a small part of the nail may need to be removed to ensure the area drains completely. With proper treatment, acute paronychia usually heals within 5 to 10 days, with no permanent damage to the nail.
Chronic paronychia, on the other hand, may take several weeks to heal and may require several weeks of antifungal medication. It is usually caused by irritation from occupational or environmental exposures, such as exposure to detergents and other chemicals, or from a chronic bacterial or fungal infection. It can cause changes in the affected nail, such as discolouration, detachment, or abnormal shaping.
To prevent paronychia, it is important to avoid damaging the cuticles, as this can allow bacteria to enter the skin and cause an infection. This includes not pushing cuticles back, trimming them, or using cuticle remover. Additionally, wearing rubber gloves can protect the nails from exposure to detergents and chemicals.
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Candida, a type of nail fungus
Candida is a type of yeast that is naturally present on the skin and mucous membranes of the human body. It is usually harmless, but certain factors can cause it to multiply out of control and infect the nails, skin, and mucous membranes. This condition is known as candidiasis, and it can lead to nail infections that are challenging to resolve.
Candida nail infections typically result from paronychia, which is an infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail. It is characterised by throbbing pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in the skin around the nail. In some cases, a small collection of pus may form under the skin next to the nail or underneath it. Candida nail infections often start near the nail fold (the cuticle) and can cause the nail to lift off its bed, appearing swollen and red, and feeling tender to the touch. The nail may also become discoloured, with white, yellow, green, or black marks appearing on the nail and spreading.
The most common type of Candida species causing nail infections is Candida albicans. Nail infections caused by Candida can be difficult to treat and may require a combination of approaches. Dr Phoebe Rich of the American Academy of Dermatology recommends the following three steps to treat Candida of the nails:
- Investigating and resolving any possible underlying medical causes, such as diabetes or exposure to irritants.
- Keeping the nails dry and away from harsh substances or water, for example, by wearing gloves.
- Strengthening the nails with petroleum jelly or thicker-based lubricants rather than watery lotions.
If the infection does not resolve with these treatments, surgical nail removal may be necessary. A new nail will grow back, but it takes time. Vitamin B with biotin may also help to strengthen brittle nails, but more research is needed to confirm the safety and effectiveness of biotin supplements.
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Diabetics are more susceptible
Paronychia is a common nail condition that causes throbbing pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in the skin around a nail. It is an infection that usually results from bacteria entering the skin through cuts in the cuticle and the nail fold (the skin around the nail). Diabetics are more susceptible to paronychia. People with diabetes are also more likely to experience chronic paronychia, a more severe form of the infection that can cause permanent damage to the nail and underlying bone if left untreated.
Additionally, diabetes can affect blood circulation, which can impact the body's ability to fight infections. Poor blood circulation may cause diabetics to experience more severe and prolonged cases of paronychia, as adequate blood flow is crucial for delivering immune cells to the site of infection. Furthermore, diabetes can cause neuropathy, which is nerve damage that can affect the hands and fingers. This neuropathy may contribute to the pain and limited finger movement sometimes observed in diabetic patients with paronychia.
The duration of diabetes, age of the patient, and glucose control are all factors that influence the severity of paronychia symptoms in diabetic individuals. Older adults and those who have had diabetes for many years are more likely to develop diabetic complications, including paronychia. Therefore, it is essential for diabetics to maintain optimal blood glucose control through proper diet, medication, and physical therapy to reduce their risk of developing paronychia and other diabetes-related complications.
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Preventing nail infections
A swollen nail fold, also known as paronychia, can be painful and unsightly. While there are several potential causes, one of the most common is a bacterial or fungal nail infection. These infections can often be prevented with good hand and nail hygiene. Here are some tips to help keep your nails infection-free:
Keep your nails short and trim them regularly. Longer nails are more prone to breaking and tearing, which can provide an entry point for bacteria and fungi. Use sharp nail clippers to cut your nails straight across, then file the edges with a smooth emery board in one direction only – never saw back and forth, as this can weaken the nail.
Clean your hands and nails regularly. Wash your hands frequently with mild soap and warm water, especially before and after handling food, after using the toilet, and after any activity that may have caused soiling of the hands or nails. Be sure to clean under the nails as well, using a soft-bristled nail brush. Avoid harsh or drying soaps, as these can damage the skin and cuticles, providing an opportunity for infection to set in.
Dry your hands and nails thoroughly. After washing, dry your hands and nails completely, paying particular attention to the areas under and around the nails. Moist environments encourage the growth of bacteria and fungi, so make sure to dry your hands and nails before putting on gloves or inserting your hands into water again.
Protect your hands and nails. When doing tasks that may damage your nails or cuticles, such as gardening, cleaning, or dishwashing, wear gloves to protect your hands. Choose gloves that fit well and are made of breathable materials, such as cotton or leather. Avoid wearing artificial nails, as the glue used to apply them can irritate the skin and provide an entry point for infection.
Apply a moisturiser regularly. Keep your cuticles and the skin around your nails healthy by applying a moisturising lotion or cream several times a day. Look for products containing natural emollients such as aloe vera, shea butter, or vitamin E. Massage the moisturiser into the cuticles and nails to promote healthy circulation and nail growth.
Practice good nail salon hygiene. If you get manicures or pedicures, choose a reputable salon that practices proper sanitation procedures. Bring your own tools if possible, and make sure that all instruments are sterilised or disposable. Avoid salons that appear dirty or unkempt, and never allow a technician to cut your cuticles, as this can leave you vulnerable to infection.
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Treatment for nail infections
Paronychia is a common nail infection that can affect both the fingernails and toenails. It is characterised by throbbing pain, redness, warmth, and swelling in the skin around the nail. In some cases, a small collection of pus may form under the skin next to the nail or underneath it. The infection is usually caused by bacteria entering broken skin near the cuticle and nail fold, although it can also be caused by fungi.
Treatment for Acute Paronychia
If you have mild acute paronychia, you can often diagnose and treat it yourself at home. Begin by soaking the infected finger or toe in warm water for at least 15 minutes, two to four times a day. This will help to draw out any pus that has built up under the skin. Be sure to thoroughly dry the area after soaking. If your symptoms do not improve with this treatment within a day or two, or if pus develops near the nail, you should consult a doctor.
In cases of moderate to severe acute paronychia, a doctor may prescribe an oral or topical antibiotic to clear up the infection. If pus has accumulated near the nail, the doctor will numb the area and drain the pus. In some cases, a small part of the nail may need to be removed to ensure that the area drains completely. With proper treatment, acute paronychia usually heals within 5 to 10 days with no permanent damage to the nail.
Treatment for Chronic Paronychia
Chronic paronychia is a recurring or long-lasting infection that may be caused by irritation, inflammation, or a chronic bacterial or fungal infection. It is more likely to affect people with diabetes or conditions that affect blood circulation. Treatment for chronic paronychia may require several weeks of antifungal medication. It is important to remember to apply medication as directed and to keep the affected area dry to prevent the infection from returning.
Preventing Nail Infections
To prevent nail infections, it is important to practice good nail hygiene. This includes trimming nails regularly, avoiding biting or picking at the skin around the nails, and wearing gloves when working with chemicals or when the hands will be wet for an extended period. Keeping blood sugar levels within a normal range and maintaining good blood circulation can also help to prevent and manage nail infections, especially for people with diabetes.
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Frequently asked questions
A swollen nail can be a symptom of paronychia, a common nail condition that causes an infection of the skin around a fingernail or toenail.
Paronychia can be caused by biting or picking at the skin around your nails, or by pulling hangnails. It can also be caused by an ingrown toenail, or by exposing your nails to detergents and other chemicals.
If you have acute paronychia, you can soak the infected nail in warm water 3 to 4 times a day to help reduce pain and swelling. If you have chronic paronychia, your doctor may prescribe medication.
