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Paronychia: description and symptoms

How the structures involved in Paronychia differ from normal
Illustration: How the structures involved in Paronychia differ from normal

Short answer

Paronychia is inflammation or infection of the skin fold beside a nail, causing localized redness, swelling, and tenderness.

This answers one question. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace an assessment by a licensed doctor.

At a glance

Affected area
The nail fold or skin bordering the nail
Possible findings
Redness, swelling, warmth, tenderness, or pus

How it may appear

The skin next to the nail may look red, puffy, shiny, or cracked. Touching it can hurt, and the area may feel warm. Acute paronychia can develop quickly after a hangnail, cuticle damage, nail biting, or manicure. Chronic irritation may cause recurring swelling or changes in the nail surface. A small blister or collection of pus can appear along the edge. Yeast can be involved in some persistent cases; related information is available under Skin Yeast Infection.

Practical care

Wash gently, dry thoroughly, and avoid picking, biting, or trimming the cuticle. Pause manicures and reduce contact with detergents or prolonged soaking. A healthcare professional can examine the nail fold and decide whether Antibiotics For Skin Infection or another treatment fits the cause. A pus collection may require Abscess Drainage.

When to seek care

Book an assessment when swelling persists, pain interferes with daily use, pus develops, or the nail begins to lift or change shape. Seek prompt attention for spreading redness, fever, red streaks, numbness, or rapidly worsening symptoms.

Questions for your doctor

Ask what features support paronychia, whether a sample or drainage is needed, and how to protect the nail while the skin heals.

Find care

General Clinics & Polyclinics in Abu Dhabi

That answer is general. If you want it applied to your own case, these are licensed general clinics & polyclinics listed in Abu Dhabi.

City
See every listing in Abu Dhabi

Ordered by verification status and how complete each clinic's public record is, then alphabetically. This is a directory listing, not a ranking — Zavis does not rate or recommend providers.

A factual listing drawn from the DHA, DOH and MOHAP licence registers. It is not a referral, an endorsement, or advice that any of these providers is right for you.

Questions people ask

Is paronychia only found on fingers?

No. It can affect the skin around fingernails or toenails.

Can a nail change with paronychia?

Yes. Ongoing inflammation can cause ridging, altered growth, or lifting, so persistent cases should be assessed.

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Medical disclaimer. This page is general health information, not medical advice, and it cannot diagnose you. Always consult a licensed healthcare provider about your own symptoms and treatment. In an emergency in the UAE, call 998 for an ambulance.