Paronychia Patient Information

Paronychia is an infection that affects the skin surrounding a finger or toenail. The two types of paronychia are acute and chronic. Acute paronychia is caused by a bacterial infection and appears suddenly, usually after an injury. The area around the finger or toenail becomes very painful, swollen and feels warm. Chronic paronychia is a slow developing yeast infection, with gradual appearance of symptoms such as swelling and redness. Often, several fingers on the same hand are affected.

• Protect your nails from paronychia

Cause

• Any injury can introduce infection to the skin surrounding the nails. Some common factors that can allow bacteria or yeast to invade the body are biting or chewing on your nails, picking at hangnails or having an ingrown toenail. Chronic paronychia commonly occurs when your nails are exposed to water for extended periods of time, as the moisture allows the germs to grow.

Symptoms

• Symptoms of paronychia can occur at different rates depending upon the source of the infection. Acute paronychia, caused by bacteria, usually only affects one nail and has symptoms that appear suddenly, including throbbing pain and swelling in the skin surrounding the nail. Chronic paronychia, caused by a yeast infection, is much milder in its symptoms, with the skin becoming tender and mildly swollen over a longer period of time.

Diagnosis

• Unlike many other skin conditions, paronychia can be diagnosed by your doctor merely examining the affected finger or toe. No specific tests are required to diagnose paronychia, however your doctor may drain some pus or fluid in order to test for the presence of yeast or bacteria to determine the precise source of the infection.

Treatment

• In the instance of acute paronychia, soaking your affected digit in warm water a few times a day can reduce the pain and inflammation. If an abscess occurs, it may need to be drained by your doctor. In a chronic paronychia infection, keep your nails dry and clean. Antibiotics may be prescribed in either case, depending on the cause of your infection. Diligence is key in ridding yourself of paronychia, as failure to complete the treatment program as directed can lead to a recurrence.

Prevention/Solution

• The prevention of paronychia is an easy task when you follow some basic hygienic rules. Keep your hands and feet clean and avoid excess moisture. Wear protective clothing such as rubber gloves if you are going to be working with water or harsh chemicals regularly. Do not cut your cuticles. Do not chew on your nails or cut them too short.