Yahoo: Dr. Jeff Hersh: If ingrown toenails become swollen, you may have a paronychia Dr. Jeff Hersh: If ingrown toenails become swollen, you may have a paronychia What is a nail infection (paronychia)?

Understanding the Context

Paronychia is nail inflammation that may result from trauma, irritation or infection. It can affect fingernails or toenails. This topic will discuss the pathogenesis, clinical manifestations, and management of acute and chronic paronychia. Ingrown toenails and other nail disorders are discussed separately.

Key Insights

Paronychia - an easy to understand guide covering causes, diagnosis, symptoms, treatment and prevention plus additional in depth medical information. Paronychia is an inflammation of the skin around the nail, often due to bacteria or fungi. Its sudden (acute) occurrence is usually due to the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. Paronychia is a common infection around the nail that can cause redness, swelling, and pain along the nail edge. Learn what causes it, what you can safely do first at home, and when to see a doctor.

Final Thoughts

Paronychia is an infection in the skin around the nail, which becomes inflamed, swollen, and painful. Learn more about causes, treatments, and preventions.