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 Causes
Paronychia occurs when germs get past the skin's protective layer due to a small cut or graze. This allows the invisible microbes, typically staph bacteria, to enter the area and cause infection. Paronychia is classed as a localized skin condition, meaning the infection typically stays within a small area.
Often, the triggers for paronychia aren't easily identified, but picking or biting nails, cosmetic nail applications and ingrowing toenails are all risk factors. Essentially, any action that disrupts the area around the nail fold or cuticle. Paronychia is also linked to jobs where the hands are wet for extended periods, such as construction and cleaning.
