Paronychia Treatment

Medically Reviewed by Sanjay Ponkshe on June 12, 2024
Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors
1 min read
  • Do not remove any part of the nail.
  • If an artificial nail is on an infected finger, remove it.

For mild nail infection or while waiting to see a doctor:

  • Soak the affected foot or hand 3 to 4 times daily for 20 minutes inantiseptic solution of warm water and chlorhexadine or povidone-iodine. 
  • Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment and bandage. (An oral antibiotic may be prescribed).

Seek medical help as soon as possible if:

  • Symptoms don’t improve after 2 to 3 days.
  • A pus-filled abscess pocket forms on the side or base of the nail.
  • The person has a fever and red streaks around the nail, nail discoloration, or joint or muscle pain.
  • The person has diabetes.

If you seek medical help:

  • The doctor may sample pus or fluid and prescribe an oral antibiotic. In chronic cases of paronychia, your doctor may prescribe an anti-fungal topical.
  • If a pus-filled abscess pocket develops, a doctor may need to drain it.