Small Cuts Around Nails Can Lead to Serious Infections if Ignored, Experts Warn

[medi K / HEALTH IN NEWS] A minor cut or tear near the fingernail might seem trivial, but without proper care, it can escalate into a painful condition known as paronychia, a bacterial infection requiring prompt attention. Individuals with habits like nail-biting or picking at the skin around their nails face a significantly higher risk of infection, medical experts caution.

Initial symptoms often include mild redness or itching around the nail. If left untreated, however, the condition can progress to intense pain, swelling, and even pus formation, severely disrupting daily activities. Maintaining healthy nails and surrounding skin through diligent care of even the smallest wounds is critical to preventing complications.



From Swelling to Pus: The Risks of Untreated Paronychia

In its early stages, paronychia presents as redness, warmth, and tenderness around the nail bed. As the condition worsens, an abscess filled with pus may develop, making it excruciating to use the affected hand.

Dr. Ji-Yeon Byun, a dermatologist at Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital in Seoul, emphasizes the importance of early intervention. “While paronychia may sometimes resolve as a simple inflammation, neglecting it can allow bacteria to penetrate deeper tissues, potentially leading to serious infections like cellulitis,” she said. Cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection, can cause high fever and severe swelling, often requiring antibiotics and, in some cases, hospitalization.

Clean Nail Care: The First Line of Defense

Preventing paronychia starts with keeping the nail area clean and well-moisturized. For those in occupations involving frequent water exposure—such as dishwashers or healthcare workers—extra attention to moisturizing is essential. During dry seasons, applying hand cream or petroleum jelly regularly can help protect the skin around the nails.

When dealing with hangnails, avoid pulling or biting them off, as this can create openings for bacteria. Instead, use sterilized scissors to trim them carefully. After nail treatments like manicures or using nail polish remover, moisturizing is crucial to prevent skin dryness, which can increase inflammation risk. Repeated irritation heightens the chance of infection, so seeking medical attention at the first sign of symptoms is strongly recommended.

Lim Hye Jung / press@themedik.kr

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