First Aid & Emergencies

Paronychia Treatment

1. Protect Nail

• Do not remove any part of the nail.

• If an artificial nail is on an infected finger, remove it.

2. Reduce Pain and Swelling

For mild nail infectionor while waiting to see a doctor:

• Soak the affected foot or hand 2 to 3 times daily in warm salt water.

• Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and bandage.

3. When to See a Doctor

Seek medical help as soon as possible if:

• Symptoms don’t improve after 2 to 3 days.

• A pus-filled abscess pocket forms on the side or base of the nail.

• The person has a fever and red streaks around the nail, nail discoloration, or joint or muscle pain.

• The person has diabetes.

4. Follow Up

If you seek medical help:

• The doctor may sample pus or fluid and prescribe an antibiotic or anti-fungal medication.

• If a pus-filled abscess pocket develops, a doctor may need to drain it.