Nail Infections You Shouldn’t Ignore: Understanding Paronychia

What is paronychia?

Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the fingernails or toenails. It causes pain, swelling, redness, and in more severe cases, pus. If left untreated, the infection may cause abnormal nail growth or even permanent nail damage.

The condition is usually caused by bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes, but fungi can also be responsible.

Causes and risk factors

Bacteria or fungi typically enter the skin through:

• Small cuts, cracked skin, or hangnails.
• Ingrown nails (especially on toenails).
• Irritation from water or chemicals.
• Trauma to the nail bed or cuticle, often from accidents, nail-biting, or frequent manicures/pedicures.

Paronychia doesn’t only affect people who bite their nails. It is also common among individuals frequently exposed to irritants like detergents, cleaning agents, or constant contact with water.

People with diabetes or weakened immune systems are at greater risk.

Symptoms of paronychia

Symptoms can vary depending on whether the infection is acute or chronic:

• Acute paronychia: develops suddenly with intense pain, swelling, redness, and pus around the nail.
• Chronic paronychia: lasts more than six weeks. The skin around the nail may become thickened and dry, and the nail itself may change shape or color.

Seek medical help if symptoms worsen, fever develops, or pus continues to drain, as the infection can spread deeper.

Untreated paronychia may lead to complications such as abscesses, soft tissue infection, or permanent nail damage. In people with diabetes, even a minor wound can worsen quickly and cause a serious infection.

Home care for mild paronychia

Mild cases can often be treated at home by soaking the affected nail in warm water for about 15 minutes, several times a day. After soaking, dry the area with a clean towel.

Never try to squeeze or puncture the pus yourself. It can worsen the infection.

Soaking helps drain the pus naturally. If symptoms don’t improve within one or two days, consult a doctor. In some cases, a doctor may need to drain the pus with a small incision or prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medication, depending on the cause.

Keep the area clean, and change dressings if necessary. Neglected infections can seriously damage the nail.

Caring for minor nail wounds

Even minor wounds around the nail can develop into infections if left untreated. That’s why proper wound care is essential.

One option is wund+™ Wound Spray, which contains hypochlorous acid. It works as a gentle yet effective antimicrobial solution, safe for use around sensitive areas like the nails, helping prevent infection from the very beginning.

How to prevent paronychia

Simple steps can help protect your nails from infection:

• Stop biting your nails or picking at your cuticles.
• Avoid cutting nails too short or trimming cuticles too deeply.
• Keep hands and nails clean by washing regularly with mild soap.
• Apply lotion to cuticles and nail folds to prevent cracking from dryness.
• Wear waterproof gloves when working with water or harsh chemicals.
• Limit the use of artificial nails or excessive nail art that may injure the cuticle.

Small wounds around the nails may look minor, but they can become entry points for serious infections. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and preventive measures, you can keep your nails healthy.

Don’t forget to use the right wound care products, like wund+™ Wound Spray, which can help protect your nails and lower the risk of infection.