What should I do if my fingernail has paronychia and is swollen and painful to touch?

Jun 17, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Recently, I've noticed swelling in my fingernail paronychia. What should I do if my nail paronychia is swollen and painful to touch?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Wang Xiaoyan
The fingernail has developed paronychia with swelling and pain upon touch. The following measures can be taken for treatment: 1. Disinfection and moist dressing: Disinfect the affected area using iodine solutions such as 0.5% tincture of iodine or povidone-iodine, 3–4 times daily. Alternatively, soak the affected area alternately with hydrogen peroxide and povidone-iodine to control inflammation and reduce swelling. 2. Topical medication: If symptoms are significant, apply topical antibiotics such as mupirocin ointment or compound polymyxin B ointment as directed by a physician to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. 3. Systemic medication: If local pain is severe, oral medications such as Niuhuang Xiaoyan tablets, Pudilan Xiaoyan tablets, or ibuprofen sustained-release capsules may be taken to alleviate pain. 4. Physical therapy: Under medical supervision, physical treatments such as LED red light or helium-neon laser therapy may be used to promote resolution of inflammation. 5. Surgical intervention: If an abscess has formed and pus drainage is evident, incision and drainage should be considered. If signs of spreading infection occur, procedures such as nail avulsion or nail foldoplasty may be necessary. All the above measures should be performed under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Do not attempt self-treatment, as this may worsen the condition. Additionally, keep the affected area clean and dry, and avoid contact with water to prevent infection.