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Suggest Treatment For Paronychia

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Posted on Wed, 10 Aug 2016
Question: My left thumb is swollen, just left of the nail. I've been putting hot compresses on it and they seem to relieve the swelling somewhat.
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Answered by Dr. Michelle Gibson James (33 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
possibly paronychia

Detailed Answer:
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

It is possible that it may be paronychia developing. Paronychia is defined as soft tissue infection and inflammation of around the finger nail bed.

If there is no evidence of infection (may have a slight yellow discharge seen) then the swelling may be due to inflammation/irritation of the area and there may not be an infection present.
In that case, the use of the anti inflammatory pain killers (such as the advil that you are using) along with the warm compresses can be continued.

If it is paronychia then antibiotics may be needed from your doctor.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Michelle Gibson James

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2001

Answered : 16808 Questions

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Suggest Treatment For Paronychia

Brief Answer: possibly paronychia Detailed Answer: HI, thanks for using healthcare magic It is possible that it may be paronychia developing. Paronychia is defined as soft tissue infection and inflammation of around the finger nail bed. If there is no evidence of infection (may have a slight yellow discharge seen) then the swelling may be due to inflammation/irritation of the area and there may not be an infection present. In that case, the use of the anti inflammatory pain killers (such as the advil that you are using) along with the warm compresses can be continued. If it is paronychia then antibiotics may be needed from your doctor. I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions