Many of us have already heard of nail fungus and even the scientific term for it known as onychomycosis. But not many people know what paronychia is and that it is also a common nail infection.

As far as paronychia goes, it is a form of nail infection that occurs alongside the edges of the nails. If left untreated this infection can not only spread to the entire nail. It can also infect the entire toe or finger.

So what is the cause of this you ask? As with many infections, it begins with bacteria. The bacteria on the skin enter the skin and go around the circumference of the nail, which is usually due to damage by trauma. The most common examples of damage to the nail from trauma are nail-biting, sucking the finger, direct contact with chemicals or chemical irritants, and frequent dishwashing. Fungal nails can also cause paronychia. Furthermore, this infection can spread from body part to body part, meaning the feet to the hands or vice versa.

The signs usually begin with redness and/or swelling of the skin around the nail. It can be very sore and painful, as well as exhibit discoloration of a yellow or green color, which signifies pus growing under.

In terms of treatment, the best solution is to visit a podiatrist or dermatologist. These types of infections should never be left untreated and or self-treatment. If you have any of the above symptoms described, contact your doctor immediately.

Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus

If you have caught nail fungus, it can be easily treated using the FDA-approved PinPointe laser, which typically only takes one treatment.

Our toenail doctor in Valrico, FL recommends this treatment. The PinPointe Laser treatment has the highest cure rate in the market. It has no side effects and no recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after the treatment. Also, it is not painful.

If you have any signs of nail fungus, call us at (800) 672-0625 or visit our website for more information on our doctors at one of our over 150 locations.