Hangnail
Hangnail | |
---|---|
Other names | Agnail |
The bottom finger has a hangnail. | |
Specialty | Dermatology |
A hangnail is a small, torn piece of
dry skin, or by trauma to the fingers.[1]
Presentation
Complications
Hangnails can become infected and cause paronychia, a type of skin infection that occurs around the nails. Treatments for paronychia vary with severity, but may include soaking in hot salty water, the use of oral antibiotic medication, or clinical lancing. Paronychia itself rarely results in further complications but can lead to abscess, permanent changes to the shape of the nail, or the spread of infection.[2] Hangnails may also hurt if pulled, as they may remain firmly attached to living skin.
Prevention
Daily use of hand lotion (or hand cream) or cuticle oil may help prevent the formation of hangnails.[3][4]
Treatment
For home treatment, the
antibiotic ointment if the area appears inflamed. Persistent hangnails should be evaluated by a physician.[5]
References
- ^ a b Helgas, Eric (March 13, 2024). "What's the Best Way to Get Rid of a Hangnail?". The New York Times. Retrieved March 13, 2024.
These pesky skin tears can be a huge pain. Here's what to do if you get one, and how to prevent hangnails in the first place.
- ^ Paronychia, MedLine Plus
- ^ Treating a Hangnail - Topic Overview, WebMD
- ISBN 978-0-323-44223-7.
- ^ Hangnails Archived 2015-09-06 at the Wayback Machine, American Academy of Dermatology