Nail Infection Near the Toe (Paronychia / Ingrown Toenail)

Dr Muhammad Faizan September 21, 2025

 

Thank you for sharing the picture 🙏.
From the image, it looks like a toe with pus and swelling near the nail — this is usually a case of paronychia (nail infection) or an ingrown toenail with secondary infection. I’ll write a full English article about this condition for you.

Nail Infection Near the Toe (Paronychia / Ingrown Toenail)

Introduction

A swollen, painful toe with yellow pus near the nail is a common condition known as paronychia or an infected ingrown toenail. While it may look alarming, with the right treatment and care, most people recover quickly. This article explains the causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention of nail infections near the toe.

Causes

  1. Ingrown Toenail

    • When the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, it causes irritation and opens the door for infection.

  2. Bacterial Infection

    • Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus enter the broken skin around the nail and cause pus formation.

  3. Fungal Infection

    • In some cases, yeast or fungi infect the skin around the nail, leading to redness, swelling, and chronic inflammation.

  4. Trauma

    • Cutting nails too short, wearing tight shoes, or injuring the toe can lead to nail infections.

Symptoms

  • Swelling and redness around the nail

  • Yellow or green pus collection (abscess)

  • Pain and tenderness when walking or pressing the toe

  • Warmth in the infected area

  • In severe cases, fever and spreading redness of the foot

Treatment Options

1. Home Remedies (for mild cases)

  • Warm Salt Soaks: Soak the toe in warm water with a teaspoon of salt for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times daily. This helps reduce swelling and draw out infection.

  • Keep Clean & Dry: Wash gently with mild soap and water, and keep the toe dry.

  • Antiseptic Application: Apply natural antiseptics like diluted tea tree oil or over-the-counter antiseptic cream.

2. Medical Treatments (moderate to severe cases)

  • Drainage: If pus is collected, a doctor may need to carefully drain it.

  • Antibiotics: Oral or topical antibiotics are prescribed if bacterial infection is confirmed.

  • Nail Trimming / Partial Nail Removal: In recurring ingrown toenails, part of the nail may be removed to prevent re-infection.

  • Antifungal Medicine: If a fungus is the cause, antifungal creams or tablets are used.

Prevention Tips

  • Trim nails straight across, not curved, to prevent ingrown nails.

  • Wear properly fitting shoes with enough toe space.

  • Keep feet clean and dry to avoid fungal and bacterial growth.

  • Avoid cutting nails too short or digging into nail corners.

  • Disinfect nail clippers before use.

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical help if:

  • The pain and swelling get worse

  • Pus continues to collect despite home care

  • Redness spreads up the toe or foot

  • You have diabetes or poor circulation (higher risk of complications)

Conclusion

A swollen, pus-filled infection near the toenail, as shown in the picture, is most likely paronychia or an infected ingrown toenail. With proper care — warm soaks, antiseptics, and medical treatment when necessary — healing is usually quick and complete. Prevention through correct nail trimming and good foot hygiene is the key to avoiding recurrence.

👉 Would you like me to expand this into a full 800–1000 word blog article with natural remedies and SEO-friendly headings (like a health blog post)?

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