What is Paronychia and How to Find a Cure

Paronychia is a common and painful condition that affects the skin surrounding the nails called proximal nail fold. Having a good understanding about this conditions and its cure helps you to reduce its risks immediately. There are two types of Paronychia condition. Let’s discuss more about this condition and its cure.

Two types of Paronychia:

• Acute Paronychia
• Chronic Paronychia

Acute Paronychia

After minor trauma usually It occurs when the area around the nail becomes infected, typically by bacteria. The symptoms of paronychia include pain,redness, swelling, and tenderness around the affected nail. The most effective treatment for paronychia depends on the severity and cause of the infection.

For paronychia caused by bacteria, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to help clear the infection. But, if it fails even after 48 hours, surgical treatment is the best management. Additionally, avoiding activities that put pressure on the affected finger, such as typing or playing an instrument, can help prevent further irritation.

In most Acute Paronychia cases, the PODIATRIC surgeon may need to drain the pus from the affected area using a needle or scalpel. The wound may then be covered with a sterile dressing or antibiotic cream to prevent reinfection.

Chronic Paronychia

Inflammation involving one or more nail folds which lasts for more than a month is called Chronic Paronychia condition. Recent injury from manicure, frequent contact with water or some chemicals may be the causes apart from other skin diseases. Avoidance of causative agents is the main stay of treatment for Chronic Paronychia. Surgical treatment is rarely needed if pus is frequently forming.

If the paronychia is caused by a fungal infection, anti-fungal medications may be necessary. In some cases, a combination of antibiotics and anti-fungal medication may be used.

General nail care

Preventing paronychia involves good hygiene practices, such as regularly washing your hands and keeping your nails trimmed and clean. It is also important to avoid biting or picking at your nails, as this can create small cuts that allow bacteria or fungi to enter the skin.

In conclusion, paronychia can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but with proper treatment, it can be easily managed. For mild cases, medications with compressive dressings can help. For more severe cases, surgical treatment like draining the pus and antibiotics, may be necessary.

At Madurai Footcare Centre, we offer advanced treatments for both Acute and Chronic Paronychia conditions. Book an appointment now!