What methods can be used to treat paronychia?

Paronychia can be treated using various methods: 1. Topical medications: For mild cases of paronychia, topical antibiotics such as mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid cream may be applied. These agents help combat bacterial infection and inflammation, relieving symptoms such as redness, swelling, heat, and pain. 2. Oral medications: Under medical supervision, oral antibiotics such as cephalexin capsules or amoxicillin capsules may be prescribed. These are effective for more severe infections. 3. Injectable medications: If the infection spreads to surrounding tissues, intravenous or intramuscular antibiotics such as sodium amoxicillin for injection or metronidazole injection may be required to control the infection. 4. Infrared physical therapy: During the early stages of the condition, infrared therapy can help alleviate pain and prevent infection progression. 5. Surgical treatment: For severe cases with significant abscess formation, surgical intervention—such as incision and drainage or nail avulsion—may be necessary to drain pus and relieve local pressure. The choice of treatment should be based on the severity of the paronychia and the doctor's recommendations. Patients should seek timely medical care and follow medical advice strictly.