HomeAnswersDermatologyparonychiaI have a fungal infection around my fingernail. Please help.

Can antibiotics along with salt water application help manage paronychia?

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Published At February 12, 2024
Reviewed AtFebruary 12, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have a skin fungal infection surrounding my fingernail. Additionally, I experience swelling, pus, and pain, with the affected area showing red, yellow, and grey colors. The infection has been present for around three weeks. I have used Fusidic acid cream and completed one course of Amoxicillin and Potassium clavulanate tablets. I have also used Mupirocin ointment.

Please suggest.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have reviewed the details and the image (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity) provided by your end, and I understand your concern. The issue you are experiencing is called paronychia, which refers to infections of the nail and surrounding skin. Paronychia is common and is often caused by factors such as trauma to the affected area, hormonal changes, genetic susceptibility, excessive hand washing, and maintaining moist hands, leading to infection.

Paronychia can be treated in several ways, including medications such as oral and topical creams. However, the most effective method is the removal of the infected material through a small prick or incision made in the affected area, followed by expressing the pus. It is important to note that this procedure should not be attempted at home and must be performed by a doctor in a hospital setting under sterile precautions.

I suggest you take:

  1. One capsule of Amoxicillin and Clavulanic acid 625 mg: Consume one capsule after breakfast and one capsule after dinner for five days.
  2. One tablet of Diclofenac and Serratiopeptidase: Take one tablet after breakfast and one after dinner for three days to reduce inflammation and pain.
  3. One tablet of Pantoprazole 40 mg: Take one tablet 30 minutes before breakfast and one 30 minutes before dinner for five days to prevent acidity from medications.
  4. Apply Mupirocin 2 % ointment thrice daily on the affected area.
  5. Use lukewarm salt water to soak the affected area for 10 minutes daily.
  6. Make sure to consult a doctor in person for the removal of any affected areas.
  7. Ensure that the skin is dry after washing.
  8. Avoid excessive washing.

Consult a specialist doctor, talk to them, and then take the medication.

I hope this helps you.

Thanks for using icliniq, and have a nice day.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty
Dr. Sandhya Narayanan Kutty

Venereology

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