Health Tip: Take Care of Your Fingernails

Health Tip: Take Care of Your Fingernails

(HealthDay News) -- Paronychia is a skin infection around a fingernail that is often caused by tearing a hangnail or cuticle. If the skin is broken, bacteria or fungi can gather and cause a painful infection.

The University of Michigan Health System says that signs of an infection include redness, swelling, pain and irritation at the site. After a few days, pus or other discharge may seep from the wound.

Bacterial infections are treated with an antibiotic, while fungal infections are treated with an anti-fungal cream. If an abscess has formed, your doctor may have to drain the area to alleviate the infection.