A hangnail is a common, minor skin ailment caused by a small tear near the nail fold or cuticle. This injury creates an open pathway for bacteria or fungi, potentially leading to an infection known as paronychia. While a simple hangnail is merely irritating, an infected hangnail can be painful and requires focused attention to prevent complications. This article provides advice for recognizing a mild infection and managing it effectively at home.
Identifying an Infected Hangnail
A mild infection is characterized by distinct signs of inflammation around the nail fold. The most noticeable symptom is localized swelling, where the skin near the nail becomes puffy and raised. This swelling is often accompanied by redness (erythema) and the area will feel warm to the touch. Pain is a strong indicator of infection, often feeling like a throbbing sensation. The presence of pus or a pus-filled blister, which may appear white or yellow, confirms the body is actively fighting an infection.
Step-by-Step Home Treatment
Home treatment for a mild infection focuses on cleaning the area, encouraging drainage, and preventing further bacterial growth. The initial step involves soaking the affected finger in warm water for about 15 minutes, repeated three to four times daily. Adding Epsom salt or a dilute antibacterial soap to the water helps cleanse the site and draw out fluid buildup. After each soak, dry the area gently and thoroughly to prevent bacterial growth.
If the original hangnail piece is still present, carefully trim it using clean, sanitized nail clippers or small scissors, cutting it level with the skin. Sterilizing the tools with rubbing alcohol beforehand helps avoid introducing more germs. Once the area is dry, apply a small amount of an over-the-counter topical antibiotic ointment, such as bacitracin, directly to the infected area. This application helps eliminate surface bacteria and maintains a moist environment conducive to healing. Finally, cover the finger with a sterile bandage to protect the area from dirt and trauma.
When Professional Medical Care is Necessary
While many mild infections respond well to consistent home care, certain signs indicate the infection has become more serious and requires professional medical attention. One serious red flag is spreading redness, which may appear as a red streak extending from the finger up the hand or arm. This streaking suggests the infection has entered the lymphatic system and needs immediate treatment.
You should also seek medical care if the pain becomes intense, throbbing, or interferes with sleep, or if the infection is accompanied by systemic symptoms like a fever or chills. Other signs of a worsening condition include numbness in the finger, an inability to fully bend the adjacent joint, or if the infection does not improve after 48 to 72 hours of diligent home treatment. A physician may need to drain an abscess or prescribe oral antibiotics to resolve a deeper infection.
Preventing Future Hangnails
Preventing hangnails is the most effective way to avoid subsequent paronychia infections. Proper nail care involves cutting fingernails straight across or with a slightly rounded edge, and never tearing or biting the skin around the nail. Since dry skin is brittle and susceptible to cracks, moisturizing the cuticles regularly is an effective preventative measure. A quality hand cream or cuticle oil helps maintain the flexibility and resilience of the skin surrounding the nail bed. It is also beneficial to wear waterproof gloves when hands are exposed to water for long periods, such as when washing dishes or handling harsh cleaning chemicals.