Home Treatment of Paronychia

Paronychia is inflammation or infection beside a fingernail or toenail. It may follow a hangnail, manicure, biting, picking, or repeated contact with water and irritants. The nail fold can become red, swollen, tender, or shiny, and a pocket of pus may form. Ongoing moisture and irritation can also allow a yeast-related process such as [Skin Yeast Infection](/conditions/cutaneous-candidiasis/) to contribute.

Soak the affected finger or toe in comfortably warm water, then dry it carefully. Repeat through the day if this eases tenderness. Keep the area clean and protected with a light dressing, avoid biting or cutting the cuticle, and pause manicures until healed. Do not puncture, squeeze, or cut into a swollen nail fold yourself, and do not share nail tools. If the area is only mildly inflamed and there is no pus, these measures may support recovery while you monitor it.

A visible or tense collection of pus may need [Abscess Drainage](/treatments/minor-procedures/abscess-drainage/). A clinician may prescribe [Antibiotics For Skin Infection](/treatments/medical-dermatology/antibiotic-therapy-for-skin-infection/) when bacterial infection is suspected.

Arrange prompt medical care for pus, worsening pain, increasing swelling, spreading redness, red streaks, fever, or difficulty moving the finger. Seek assessment sooner if you have diabetes, poor circulation, reduced immunity, or repeated episodes. A clinician should also review symptoms that do not settle or that keep returning, because ongoing nail-fold inflammation may require a different plan.

Is there an abscess that needs drainage? Does this look bacterial, irritant, or yeast-related? How should I dress it, and how can I prevent recurrence after manicures or frequent wet work?