Nail cellulitis: symptoms and care

The skin beside or behind a nail may become tender, hot, red, and swollen. The redness can extend beyond the immediate nail fold, unlike a small local irritation. A break in the skin, bite, manicure injury, or another infection such as [Athlete's Foot](/conditions/athletes-foot/) can provide an entry point. Cellulitis is not the same as a bruised nail or simple dryness.

Contact a clinician promptly for assessment; treatment may involve prescribed antibiotics, depending on the examination. Keep the area clean and covered with a light dressing if the skin is open. Do not squeeze a collection, cut the nail fold, or share towels. Marking the edge of redness can help show whether it is spreading. Read more about [Cellulitis](/conditions/cellulitis/).

Seek urgent care if redness is rapidly spreading, pain or swelling is escalating, or you develop [Fever](/symptoms/fever/), chills, confusion, dizziness, or unusual weakness. People with diabetes or reduced immunity should seek advice early because infection can worsen quickly. Severe illness signs can indicate [Sepsis](/conditions/sepsis/).

Ask whether the infection is limited to the nail fold, whether drainage is needed, and which symptoms should trigger urgent review. Tell the clinician about diabetes, immune conditions, recent manicure trauma, and any medicines you take.