What Could Cause Pain Around My Fingernails, and How Can It Be Treated?

Several issues can make the area around your fingernails hurt. One common cause is trauma; if you accidentally bump or crush your finger, you might develop a subungual hematoma, which is when blood collects under the nail. This results in pressure and sharp pain. Another cause is an infection in the area around your nail, called paronychia. This infection often happens when germs enter through a small cut or break at the cuticle, leading to redness, swelling, and tenderness. In some cases, pain may also arise if there is a fungal infection involving the nail and surrounding skin. To treat these conditions, start by soaking the affected finger in warm water with a bit of salt for 10–15 minutes a few times a day, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation. For a paronychia, applying an over-the-counter antibiotic cream may be useful. If there is a noticeable collection of blood or pus, or if the pain worsens, it is important to see a doctor who can drain the hematoma or prescribe oral antibiotics. In the case of a fungal infection, a topical antifungal solution like ciclopirox might be recommended.