hangnail

I have a hangnail on thumb..it has become very red, swollen and painful. I havetried soaking it in warm salt water, peroxide and neosporin with bandaids. What to do?

[Dr Sharma]

Hi there .This infected hangnail not responding to topical antibiotic, needs to be shown to a doctor immediately otherwise a paronychia may result.  You might be prescribed oral antibiotic and pain killer and also may drain it or excise it under local anesthesia. Hope this helps. Take care.

[SLadylani]

I would stop doing any and all treatments as it is probably irritating the area more. Covering the area with a bandage at all times except sleeping hours is a good idea along with frequent hand washing. If symptoms do not resolve within a few days after doing this, I would consult a doctor for a physcial exam as this might me an antibiotic specific type of bacteria that needs a prescription antibiotic

[MsErika]

try pulling the skin back by pulling it down to get the puss out!  then use peroxide.  Yes it will hurt but it will feel good!  At least that what I have done in the past when I have had hang nails.