How to treat an ingrown toenail that has become infected and pus-filled?

Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
Updated on September 05, 2024
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Paronychia with suppuration can be controlled by disinfecting the area with iodine and then applying anti-inflammatory ointments, typically mupirocin ointment or erythromycin ointment. If there is significant local swelling, it may be necessary to perform a lateral nail avulsion or nail removal under local anesthesia to ensure adequate drainage of the pus and control the infection effectively. After controlling the infection, for more severe cases of ingrown toenail deformity, it may require further correction of the nail and a procedure to reshape the nail groove to manage the inflammation and correct nail deformities. Treatment should also include oral antibiotics, taken under medical supervision, such as erythromycin tablets. Since paronychia with pus formation can easily lead to systemic infection, it is crucial to treat it aggressively.

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Written by Huang Ling Juan
Dermatology
57sec home-news-image

How to treat an ingrown toenail that has become infected and pus-filled?

Paronychia with suppuration can be controlled by disinfecting the area with iodine and then applying anti-inflammatory ointments, typically mupirocin ointment or erythromycin ointment. If there is significant local swelling, it may be necessary to perform a lateral nail avulsion or nail removal under local anesthesia to ensure adequate drainage of the pus and control the infection effectively. After controlling the infection, for more severe cases of ingrown toenail deformity, it may require further correction of the nail and a procedure to reshape the nail groove to manage the inflammation and correct nail deformities. Treatment should also include oral antibiotics, taken under medical supervision, such as erythromycin tablets. Since paronychia with pus formation can easily lead to systemic infection, it is crucial to treat it aggressively.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
56sec home-news-image

Can you use vinegar for soaking your feet when you have paronychia?

Paronychia is an infectious disease characterized by the nail embedding into the flesh, leading to a purulent infection. This condition has a strong recurrence rate and is somewhat related to one's walking posture or frequently wearing shoes that are too tight. During treatment, soaking in vinegar does not have a direct therapeutic effect and should generally be avoided. Topically, iodine can be used for disinfection, and oral and topical anti-inflammatory medications can be used for treatment. The most common and thorough treatment method is to undergo a minor surgery at a dermatology department of a reputable hospital, where the nail is forcibly corrected to prevent future embedding and recurrence of the disease. It’s advisable to avoid wearing shoes that are too tight, and in cases of severe purulent infection, it's best to undergo minor surgery to drain the pus. Avoid spicy and stimulating foods and try not to stay up late.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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How to treat paronychia?

The treatment of paronychia begins with identifying the cause, which predominantly is due to bacterial infection of the nail groove and surrounding tissues, leading to an inflammatory response. Therefore, to effectively treat paronychia, it is essential to combat the infection and apply or take some anti-inflammatory medications. Additionally, if pus formation occurs, proper drainage is necessary. After developing paronychia, it is advised against self-medicating or performing incisions to drain pus; instead, treatment should be sought from a dermatologist or a surgeon.

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Written by Zhu Zhu
Dermatology
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Can erythromycin ointment be used for paronychia?

Erythromycin ointment can be used for paronychia. Paronychia is a disease where an infection occurs in the nail groove or the surrounding soft tissue. If left untreated, paronychia can develop into more severe conditions such as subungual abscess. Paronychia often results from injuries such as abrasions, puncture wounds, ingrown nails, or pulling out hangnails. Erythromycin ointment can be used as a topical medication for paronychia, but it is important to keep the affected area clean and dry.

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Written by Liu Gang
Dermatology
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Which department should I go to for paronychia?

Paronychia is an infectious, purulent disease that occurs when a fingernail or toenail embeds into the skin. This condition can relate to one's walking posture or wearing tight shoes and falls under the domain of dermatology for treatment. Treatment can be sought by registering with the dermatology department of a formal hospital. The most common treatment methods include initial oral and topical anti-inflammatory medications. If these are ineffective, surgery may be required to clean and drain the pus. After recovery, the nail may be trimmed or removed and corrections enforced to prevent recurrence of paronychia. Additionally, proper shoe-wearing, walking, dietary, and lifestyle habits should be maintained. It is advisable to avoid wearing tight shoes, walking for prolonged periods, and consuming spicy and irritating foods.