Can paronychia be prevented?
Here are some things that can lessen your chances of developing paronychia:
* Don't bite your nails or pick at the cuticle area around them.
* Don't cut nails too short. Trim your fingernails and toenails with clippers or manicure scissors, and smooth the sharp corners with an emery board or nail file. The best time to do this is after a bath or shower, when your nails are softer.
* Don't push your cuticles back, trim them, or use cuticle remover. Damaging your cuticles gives bacteria a way to get into your skin and cause an infection.
* If you'll be washing a lot of dishes or if your hands might be coming into contact with chemicals, wear rubber gloves.
* If you have diabetes, make sure it is under control.
* Practice good hygiene: keep your hands and feet clean and dry.
* If you get manicures or pedicures at a nail salon, consider bringing along your own clippers, nail files, and other tools.