Managing Nail Cuts: When to Seek Medical Attention for Skin Injuries

Nail laceration

I have a cut near my nail that has exposed a small piece of flesh.
I have been applying a topical antibiotic ointment and covering it with a bandage, but since the wound is frequently exposed to water, it hasn't healed in about a week.
The area around the wound is slightly red and swollen, and it hurts when touched.
Should I consider visiting a general clinic?

Niming, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/27

Dr. Wu Yuxin reply Dermatology

Sure.

Reply Date: 2016/03/27

More Info

When managing nail cuts or any skin injuries, it is crucial to assess the severity of the injury and monitor for signs of infection or complications. Based on your description, it sounds like you have sustained a cut near your nail that has resulted in some tissue being exposed, and you are experiencing redness, swelling, and pain around the area. Here’s how to approach this situation:
1. Initial Care: It seems you have taken some appropriate initial steps by cleaning the wound and applying a topical antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin) and covering it with a bandage. Keeping the wound clean and protected is essential to prevent infection.

2. Signs of Infection: The symptoms you describe—redness, swelling, and pain—are concerning, especially since the injury has not improved after a week. These could be signs of an infection, particularly if the area feels warm to the touch or if you notice any pus or increased pain. Infections can occur when the skin barrier is compromised, especially around the nails, which are prone to bacterial and fungal infections.

3. When to Seek Medical Attention: Given that it has been a week and the wound is not healing, along with the presence of redness and pain, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. You can visit a general practitioner or an urgent care clinic. They can properly assess the wound, possibly clean it more thoroughly, and determine if you need a prescription for antibiotics or further treatment.

4. Potential Complications: If the injury is deep or if there is significant tissue damage, there may be a risk of complications such as nail deformity or chronic pain. In some cases, if the injury involves the nail matrix (the tissue under the base of the nail), it could affect nail growth. A healthcare provider can evaluate these risks and provide guidance on how to care for the injury to promote healing.

5. Preventing Future Injuries: To prevent similar injuries in the future, consider using protective gloves when engaging in activities that could lead to nail or skin injuries. Keeping nails trimmed and filed can also help reduce the risk of cuts.

In summary, while initial care is important, the persistence of symptoms after a week suggests that you should seek medical attention to ensure proper healing and to rule out any infections or complications. It's always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to skin injuries, especially those near the nails.

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