Some individuals develop an infection along the edge of the fingernail or toe nail-this is known as paronychia. It is a very common hand infection and frequently seen in individuals who bite their nails. When left untreated, paronychia can progress and involve the entire finger or toe. It is also quite painful.
Paronychia Causes
Paronychia is commonly caused by bacteria that reside on skin. When the skin around the nail edges has been broken or damaged, these bacteria can easily cause an infection. Common causes which lead to skin damage around nails is nail biting, finger sucking, frequent dishwashing with bare hands, regular encounters with harsh chemicals and detergents or improper clipping of nails. Besides bacteria, fungi can also cause paronychia.
Symptoms
Paronychia usually starts with redness and swelling that is localized to the lateral side of nail. Pain is constant and is made worse by pressing on the nail. Often, there may be a yellowish discharge from the nail edge. When the fingertip starts to swell, chances are that fluid has collected under the skin and is most likely pus (abscess)
The most common symptoms of a paronychia are:
- Swelling
- Redness
- Pus collection
- Pain
- Tenderness to touch
No comments:
Post a Comment