How to treat redness and swelling of the nail fold caused by paronychia

Jul 03, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

I have paronychia, but the granulation tissue around my nail has become red and swollen. How should the redness and swelling of the granulation tissue caused by paronychia be treated?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
The swollen and reddened skin caused by paronychia can be treated using the following methods: 1. Local disinfection: Apply continuous wet compresses with povidone-iodine, hydrogen peroxide, or medical alcohol to control inflammation, kill bacteria, and keep the wound dry. 2. Topical medications: Apply antibiotic ointments such as erythromycin ointment or mupirocin ointment to reduce inflammation and swelling. If a fungal infection is present, antifungal creams may be used. 3. Oral medication: If the swelling and redness are severe or accompanied by pain, oral antibiotics such as cephalosporins or amoxicillin may be taken to control the infection. 4. Physical therapy: During the early stages of the condition, local heat application or physical therapies such as LED red light or helium-neon laser therapy may be used to improve blood circulation and reduce swelling. 5. Surgical treatment: If the swelling is severe and an abscess has formed, incision and drainage surgery may be required to remove pus and clear away necrotic tissue. For patients with severe ingrown nails, partial or complete nail removal may be considered to prevent recurrence.