Paronychia – The Nail Infection You Need to Know About
What Is Paronychia?
Paronychia is the inflammation of the nail folds, which are the skin that surrounds the nails. It can be caused by bacteria, fungi, or yeast, and it can affect both fingernails and toenails.
Symptoms of Paronychia
The symptoms of paronychia can vary depending on the cause, but they typically include:
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- Pain *
- Redness *
- Swelling *
- Pus or discharge *
- Tenderness
Causes of Paronychia
The most common cause of paronychia is bacteria, which can enter the nail fold through a break in the skin. Other causes include:
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- Fungal infections *
- Yeast infections *
- Trauma to the nail *
- Chronic nail biting *
- Exposure to chemicals or irritants
Treatment of Paronychia
The treatment of paronychia depends on the cause. If it is caused by bacteria, antibiotics will be prescribed. If it is caused by a fungus or yeast, antifungal medications will be prescribed.
In some cases, surgery may be necessary to drain the infection or remove the infected tissue.
Prevention of Paronychia
There are a number of things you can do to prevent paronychia, including:
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- Keep your nails clean and dry. *
- Avoid biting your nails. *
- Wear gloves when handling chemicals or irritants. *
- See a doctor if you have any symptoms of paronychia.
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