Discover how to effectively manage a painful nail infection from the comfort of your home. Whether stemming from a hangnail or cuticle manipulation, paronychia presents with redness, pain, and swelling around the nail, disrupting daily routines. Fortunately, both acute and chronic forms of this condition can be easily addressed and typically resolve within 5-10 days. Explore further to understand how to tend to paronychia at home, recognize when medical intervention is necessary, and more.
Essential Insights
Key Actions to Take
Necessary Steps
Warm Water Soaking Technique

Start by filling a bowl or basin with warm tap water. Most cases of acute paronychia respond well to this treatment method, requiring 2-4 sessions daily. Whether treating a finger or foot, ensure the water is comfortably warm without causing discomfort. Acute paronychia, often resulting from injury or exposure to harsh substances, typically affects a single digit due to bacterial infection, presenting symptoms like redness, swelling, pus, and throbbing pain around the nail.

Saline Solution for Broken Skin

In cases of compromised skin around the nail, adding salt or saline solution to the warm water is crucial. Whether using table salt, Epsom salt, Burrow solution, or a saline solution, avoid harsh substances like alcohol or hydrogen peroxide, which can hinder healing.

Post-Soak Procedure

Maintaining Hand Hygiene
Medical Attention for Acute Paronychia

Diabetic Consideration

Symptom Persistence

Abscess Management Protocol

Post-Abscess Care Protocol

Antibiotic Consideration
Addressing Chronic Paronychia

Antifungal Medication Inquiry

Hand Hygiene Practices

Protective Measures

Exploring Surgical Options
Useful Tips
Preventive Measures
Important Warnings
Avoid simultaneous intake of multiple pain medications unless advised by your doctor, as excessive acetaminophen consumption can be detrimental.