Paronychia is a bacterial infection located in the nails. The condition usually occurs a few days after a skin sore. The latter was thus the entry point for bacteria. Paronychia is localized around the edge of a fingernail or toenail.
Paronychia can be superficial or deep. Superficial paronychia is located around the edge of the finger and is characterized by redness, swelling and throbbing pain. Deep paronychia is a condition that is already quite advanced. The infection spread to the muscle tendon sheaths of the fingers. At this point, it is difficult to flex the affected finger. The affected area is swollen, painful and whitish.
Care varies depending on the extent of the infection. In the case of a superficial paronychia, immerse your finger in a warm salt water bath or in an antiseptic bath containing diluted Dakin or even transcutaneous hexomedin. This bath will soften the wound, thus facilitating the evacuation of pus. Once the wound is clean, apply alcohol compresses (alcohol at 60°) that you will keep for several hours. In case the infection is prolonged, it is recommended to consult a doctor.
If the infection is already at an advanced stage, surgery and antibiotic treatment are required. In this case, the doctor will make an incision in the wound to clean it.
Untreated paronychia can spread to the phalanx bone and result in amputation.
Certain habits favor the appearance of paronychia:
To prevent whitlow, stop biting your nails. Use scissors or nail clippers to cut a small skin instead of tearing it off. Wash your hands frequently. Also, wear gloves when gardening or doing DIY. Gloves protect you from injury and prevent bacteria from getting on your hands. Finally, clean even the smallest wounds thoroughly and protect them with a dressing to prevent bacterial infection.
