Health Tip: Prevent a Finger Infection

Paronychia is an infection of the skin around a fingernail that can be red, inflamed and occasionally produce pus.

Most cases can be treated at home, the Nemours Foundation says.

The infection typically emerges after the skin surrounding a nail is injured and allows germs to penetrate. Biting or sucking nails, clipping nails too short or even getting a manicure can trigger the infection.

Nemours suggests how to help prevent the problem:

Don’t bite your nails or pick at the cuticle area around them.
Don’t cut nails too short.
Don’t push your cuticles back, trim them or use cuticle remover.
If you’ll be washing a lot of dishes or if your hands will touch chemicals, wear rubber gloves.
If you have diabetes, make sure it is under control.
Keep your hands clean and dry.
If you get a manicure, consider bringing your own clippers, nail file and other tools.

Source: HealthDay