Paronychia is an infection of the skin around the fingernails or toenails. It often develops when bacteria, yeast, or fungi enter the skin through a small break or injury—like a hangnail, cuticle tear, or nail-biting. The result is swelling, redness, and tenderness around the nail fold.
There are two main types:
- Acute paronychia – develops quickly, usually caused by bacteria, and is often the result of trauma or irritation.
- Chronic paronychia – develops slowly over time, usually due to repeated exposure to moisture and is often fungal in nature.
Common Symptoms
- Redness and swelling near the nail
- Tenderness or pain around the nail bed
- Pus or fluid accumulation
- Nail changes or detachment in chronic cases
What Causes It?
Acute paronychia is typically caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus species entering through a break in the skin. Chronic cases are often related to repeated handwashing or working in wet environments and involve Candidaspecies (a type of yeast).
Risk factors include:
- Nail biting or picking
- Manicures or artificial nails
- Diabetes
- Wet work environments (e.g., dishwashers, bartenders, healthcare workers)
Treatment Options
Acute Paronychia:
- Warm soaks: Several times a day can reduce swelling and help draw out infection.
- Topical or oral antibiotics: May be prescribed if bacterial infection is suspected.
- Incision and drainage: If pus is present, a small procedure may be needed to release pressure.
Chronic Paronychia:
- Antifungal creams: For yeast-related infections.
- Keeping hands dry: Avoid prolonged exposure to moisture.
- Avoiding irritants: Wear gloves for wet work and reduce handwashing where possible.
When to Seek Medical Attention
If the redness spreads, pain becomes severe, pus is present, or the condition doesn’t improve after a few days of home care, medical evaluation is recommended. In some cases, a minor surgical procedure may be necessary to relieve pressure or drain infection.
At Suture Squad, we can evaluate and treat both acute and chronic paronychia—often right in your home. If you’re unsure whether your nail infection needs medical care, we also offer telehealth consultations to guide your next steps.
Summary
Paronychia is a common and often painful condition that, if left untreated, can worsen or spread. Early care can prevent complications, especially if there is pus, swelling, or persistent discomfort. Suture Squad offers fast, on-site or virtual care for minor infections like paronychia to help you heal comfortably and avoid urgent care lines.