How do you pronounce "paronychia" and what does "paronychia" mean?
paronychia
noun
How to pronounce paronychia?
The word paronychia sounds like par-o-nych-i-a
/,pærə'nɪkiə/
What is the definition of paronychia?
nounlow-growing annual or perennial herbs or woody plants; whitlowworts
nouninfection in the tissues adjacent to a nail on a finger or toe
What is the meaning of paronychia?
- Paronychia is a bacterial or fungal infection of the nail fold, which is the skin around the nail.
What are the symptoms of paronychia?
- Symptoms of paronychia include redness, swelling, pain, and tenderness around the nail area. It may also cause pus or fluid-filled blisters to develop.
What causes paronychia?
- Paronychia is commonly caused by an injury to the nail fold, biting or picking the nails, or moist environments that can promote the growth of bacteria or fungi. Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or immunodeficiency, can also increase the risk of developing paronychia.
Is paronychia contagious?
- Paronychia is not usually contagious. However, if it is caused by a bacterial or fungal infection, it can potentially spread to other nails or to other people if proper hygiene measures are not followed.
How is paronychia diagnosed?
- Paronychia is diagnosed based on a physical examination of the affected area and a discussion of symptoms. In some cases, a sample of the pus or fluid may be collected for further analysis to determine the underlying cause of the infection.
What is the treatment for paronychia?
- Treatment for paronychia may involve warm water soaks, antibiotics (oral or topical), oral antifungal medications (if it is a fungal infection), pus drainage, and keeping the affected area clean and dry. In severe cases, a doctor may need to make a small incision to drain the pus.
How long does paronychia last?
- The duration of paronychia can vary depending on the underlying cause and the individual's response to treatment. Mild cases may resolve within a few days, while more severe or chronic cases may last for several weeks.
Can paronychia be prevented?
- Paronychia can be prevented by practicing good nail hygiene, avoiding biting or picking the nails, keeping the hands and feet dry, wearing gloves when working with water or chemicals, and avoiding prolonged exposure to moist environments.
When should I see a doctor for paronychia?
- It is recommended to see a doctor for paronychia if the symptoms are severe, if there is spreading redness, if there is significant swelling or pain, if pus or fluid-filled blisters are present, if there is a high fever, or if the symptoms do not improve with home care.
Can I treat paronychia at home?
- Mild cases of paronychia can often be treated at home by soaking the affected area in warm water, applying an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment, and keeping the area clean and dry. However, if the symptoms worsen or do not improve within a few days, it is advisable to seek medical attention.
