Can a cut cuticle get infected?
Paronychia (nail infection) usually results from bacteria. Bacteria get into the skin through cuts in the cuticle and the nail fold (the skin around the nail). Most nail infections get better with antibiotics. Paronychia doesn’t usually cause serious health problems.
How long does it take for a cuticle infection to heal?
In most cases, an acute paronychia heals within 5 to 10 days with no permanent damage to the nail. Rarely, very severe cases may progress to osteomyelitis (a bone infection) of the finger or toe. Although a chronic paronychia may take several weeks to heal, the skin and nail usually will return to normal eventually.
How do you treat a cuticle wound?
Self-treatment
- Apply warm compresses or soak the finger in warm, soapy water for 10 to 20 minutes, at least twice a day.
- Apply antibiotic or antifungal cream.
- Keep the infected area covered with a sterile bandage.
Will an infected cuticle heal itself?
Often, soaking the infected nail in warm water for 20 minutes a few times a day will help it heal on its own in a few days. If there’s an abscess, a doctor might need to drain it. In rare cases, part of the nail may have to be removed. The doctor also might prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
Is hydrogen peroxide good for paronychia?
Wash the area with clean water 2 times a day. Don’t use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing. You may cover the area with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a non-stick bandage. Apply more petroleum jelly and replace the bandage as needed.
Should I put a bandaid on paronychia?
Wash the area with clean water 2 times a day. Don’t use hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, which can slow healing. You may cover the area with a thin layer of petroleum jelly, such as Vaseline, and a non-stick bandage.
What is the treatment for an infected cuticle?
Application of over-the-counter antibiotic ointment can be effective at treating a minor cuticle infection. In addition, it is often recommended that one soak the cuticle infection in a small bath of warm water and epsom salt for approximately 20 minutes per day in order to draw out the infection.
How do I treat a cuticle infection?
Soaking the cuticle in epsom salt and water can help draw out the infection. Wear a pair of socks to keep the feet dry if the cuticle infection is on the foot. Antibiotic ointment should be applied to treat a minor cuticle infection. Keeping nail clippers sterilized can help prevent a cuticle infection.
How do you treat an infected fingernail?
Treatment of a finger infection may include a procedure known as incision and drain. This is done by a physician who drains the infected fluid from the area. A topical antibacterial ointment may be applied to the finger or around the fingernail.
How do you treat a nail bed infection?
Treatment for a bacterial nail bed infection most often involves veterinarian-prescribed oral antibiotics, antimicrobial foot soaks and topical ointments. In severe cases, partial or whole removal of the nail is required for drainage and healing.