A hangnail is a small piece of torn skin along the edge of a fingernail or toenail. While often just an annoyance, it can allow bacteria or fungi to enter the skin, leading to an infection called paronychia. This condition causes discomfort and tenderness.
Identifying an Infected Hangnail
Recognizing an infected hangnail involves observing specific changes around the nail. The affected area often shows redness and swelling, which may extend beyond the immediate site. Tenderness or throbbing pain can also make the area sensitive to touch.
A distinct sign of infection is pus, appearing as a white or yellow fluid-filled blister near the nail edge. The skin around the hangnail may also feel warm to the touch. These indications differentiate an infected hangnail from a simple hangnail, which typically presents only as a torn piece of skin with mild discomfort.
Steps for Home Care
Initial management of an infected hangnail begins with careful home care. Soaking the affected finger or toe in warm water several times a day can help. Soak the area for about 15 minutes, up to four times daily, to increase blood flow and cleanse the site.
Adding Epsom salts to the warm water can further assist. After soaking, gently pat the area dry with a clean cloth. If the hangnail piece is still present and soft, carefully trim it using clean, sharp nail clippers to prevent further snagging.
Apply an antiseptic or over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the affected area. Products containing ingredients like neomycin or bacitracin can help combat bacterial growth. Apply a small amount and gently massage it into the skin around the hangnail.
Keeping the area clean and protected is important. A sterile bandage can cover the hangnail to shield it from further irritation or contamination. Avoiding picking or biting the hangnail is important, as this can worsen the infection or introduce more bacteria.
Maintaining consistent hygiene throughout the day, especially before and after applying treatments. Most mild hangnail infections can resolve with consistent home care within a few days. If symptoms persist or worsen, medical consultation may be necessary.
When to Seek Medical Attention
While many infected hangnails respond to home care, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation. If redness or swelling spreads beyond the immediate nail area, it could suggest a more widespread infection, such as cellulitis.
Increasing pain, persistent throbbing, or fever also warrant medical advice, as these can signify a more serious infection. Red streaks extending from the infected finger or toe up the arm or leg require immediate attention, potentially indicating a spreading bloodstream infection.
If pus is present and does not drain naturally, or if the area becomes increasingly swollen and painful, a healthcare professional may need to drain the abscess. Attempting to drain pus at home can introduce further complications. If home treatment does not lead to improvement after a few days, or if symptoms worsen, a medical professional can assess the situation and recommend appropriate treatment, which might include oral antibiotics or other interventions.
Preventing Hangnails
Preventing hangnails involves consistent nail and hand care practices. Regularly moisturizing the hands and cuticles helps keep the skin supple and less prone to tearing. Dry skin is a common factor in hangnail formation, particularly during colder months or with frequent hand washing.
Proper nail trimming also plays a role in prevention. Avoid tearing or biting hangnails, as this can create jagged edges and open wounds vulnerable to infection. Instead, use clean, sharp nail clippers to carefully remove any loose skin.
Pushing cuticles back gently rather than cutting them can help maintain the integrity of the skin barrier around the nail. Wearing gloves when performing tasks that expose hands to harsh chemicals, excessive water, or manual labor can protect the skin from damage and dryness, thereby reducing the likelihood of hangnails.