Paronychia under a toenail: what to know

The skin beside a toenail can become inflamed after trimming too closely, picking at the edge, wearing tight shoes, or keeping feet damp. Swelling may push against the nail, while fluid can collect beneath its edge. Pain may be worse in shoes or when walking.

The colour and shape of the nail do not identify the cause on their own. A clinician checks for bacterial infection, yeast involvement such as Skin Yeast Infection, an ingrown edge, injury, or a deeper collection beneath the nail.

Wash gently, dry carefully around the nail, and choose footwear with room for the toes. Avoid cutting into corners, digging under the nail, applying artificial products, or squeezing the swollen skin. Change damp socks and pause activities that repeatedly press on the sore toe.

If examination supports a bacterial infection, Antibiotics For Skin Infection may be prescribed. A collection of pus may need Abscess Drainage, performed by a clinician after checking the nail and nearby tissue.

Seek an appointment for ongoing toenail pain, drainage, nail lifting, swelling that interferes with shoes, or redness that is not improving. Get prompt care for spreading redness, fever, red streaks, severe pain, or trouble walking. Early assessment matters particularly with diabetes, poor circulation, or reduced sensation in the feet.

Ask whether an ingrown edge is contributing, whether pus lies beneath the nail, which footwear is suitable, how to trim the nail later, and which signs indicate that the infection is extending.