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nail bed infection (paronychia)

paronychia is a skin infection (fungal or bacterial) around a nail. symptoms of redness or swelling can come on suddenly and last for a short period of time (acute), or symptoms can be ongoing or occur repeatedly (chronic).

the infection is more likely to develop from having the hands or feet in water repeatedly, or from an injury, such as biting or cutting off a hangnail or pushing back a cuticle.

minor redness or swelling may clear up with home treatment, such as keeping the area clean. some cases require treatment with topical antibiotics or antifungal medicine. occasionally a doctor will need to drain the infected area.

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this information does not replace the advice of a doctor. healthwise, incorporated, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. your use of this information means that you agree to the terms of use and privacy policy. to learn more about healthwise, visit healthwise.org. © 1995-2022 healthwise, incorporated. healthwise, healthwise for every health decision, and the healthwise logo are trademarks of healthwise, incorporated.

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