What is paronychia suppurativa?
Paronychia suppurativa (also known as paronychia) is a disease that develops when small wounds, such as those caused by pulling on a hangnail, become infected with bacteria.
It can occur in children with cracked hands or those who bite their nails.
The symptoms progress rapidly, with redness and swelling of the fingertip, and a characteristic throbbing pain.
Even a slight touch can cause severe pain, and white pus may be visible around the nail.

Treatment of Paronychia suppurativa
Treatment involves oral and topical antibiotics to suppress bacteria.
If the pain is severe, oral anti-inflammatory painkillers may be prescribed.
If pus has accumulated, a procedure to drain the pus by making a small hole in the affected area with a sterile needle is necessary.
These treatments should be received at a medical institution.

Things to be careful about in daily life
Avoid covering small wounds such as hangnails with bandages for extended periods.
Sealing the wound with a bandage can cause the skin to soften, making it easier for bacteria to multiply.
It’s better to protect it with breathable gauze.

Similar symptoms can occur in other diseases.
There are other diseases that have symptoms similar to suppurative paronychia.
If you experience these symptoms, do not self-diagnose; consult a dermatologist.

★ Herpetic paronychia
This is caused by the herpes simplex virus, not bacteria, and requires antiviral medication.

★ Candidal paronychia
This involves recurrent chronic eczema, sometimes accompanied by nail deformation, and is treated with antifungal medication.