Paronychia Symptoms, Causes and More
Article Sources
- 1. Leggit, Jeffrey C. 'Acute and Chronic Paronychia.' American Family Physician, 1 July 2017, www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0701/p44.html
- 2. Microorganisms Found on the Skin.' Microorganisms Found on the Skin | DermNet NZ, dermnetnz.org/topics/microorganisms-found-on-the-skin/
- 3. Rockwell, Pamela G. Acute and Chronic Paronychia.' American Family Physician, 15 Mar. 2001, www.aafp.org/afp/2001/0315/p1113.html
Paronychia is a red, tender infection of the skin at the side or base of a nail. Sometimes called a whitlow, paronychia is commonly caused by bacteria and can affect fingers or toes. Nail-beauty treatments, picking or biting or work that involves wet hands put people at risk, and women are three times more susceptible.1Leggit, Jeffrey C. ‘Acute and Chronic Paronychia.’ American Family Physician, 1 July 2017, www.aafp.org/afp/2017/0701/p44.html
Paronychia symptoms can develop suddenly, and sometimes it doesn't have an identifiable cause. While it can be painful, the condition can usually be managed at home in a short timeframe. Certain cases, such as those involving ingrowing toenails, or where the infection spreads, may need medical attention.
