What causes cuticle infections?

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Paronychia is a condition commonly known as a cuticle infection that affects the nail bed at the base of the fingernail or toenail. Bacteria, fungi, and a yeast known as Candida can cause different types of cuticle infections. A bacterial cuticle infection can actually occur at the same time as a fungal or Candida infection, making the condition slightly more difficult to treat. Some of the more common causes of these types of infections are things like biting the nails and cuticles, damage to the cuticles, and often clammy or wet hands or feet.

When a cuticle is damaged, it allows bacteria or fungi to enter the skin. From there, the invaders cause an infection that can result in redness, swelling, pus, and pain. A cuticle that has been bitten or injured is more likely to develop a bacterial cuticle infection from bacteria entering through the injured area. Fungal and Candida infections are the common types in those whose fingers are often wet or who have developed an infection after a manicure at a salon. Of those who develop cuticle infections on their toenails, most are fungal and generally thought to be caused by the warm, moist environment inside their socks and shoes.

Taking care of your cuticle properly is one way to prevent the most common causes of a cuticle infection. For example, cuticles should not be trimmed or trimmed during a manicure, but instead gently softened and pushed back to minimize the risk of injury. You should also avoid biting your nails and cuticles. People whose hands are frequently wet may find it difficult to prevent cuticle infections, because a moist, warm environment is a good place for Candida fungus and yeast to grow. Wet cuticles can lift up and create pockets for bacteria or fungus to get between the cuticle and the nail, leading to a nail infection.

A bacterial cuticle infection is typically an acute condition that comes on quickly. Inflammation, pus, and pain can come on suddenly, making it obvious that a finger infection is present. Candida yeast and fungal infections may seem to develop slowly, with symptoms such as yellowing nails and cuticles that appear to be detached from the nail. A fungal cuticle infection may not swell, red, or pus in the same way as a bacterial infection, but it can be a more long-term condition that’s more difficult to cure.

Treatment for a cuticle infection usually involves a topical cream or other medicine that is applied to the affected area for several days. If the infection has created an abscess or pocket of pus, a doctor may need to drain it before prescribing another treatment. In some cases, even severe infections and many chronic fungal infections can be treated with antibiotics.

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