Ingrowing fingernail?

[Halifaxmum]

I bit my fingernail so far down it hurt (stupid i know, it was a very stressful day), this was about 2 weeks ago.

It's now red, swollen and every time it gets even a little bit of pressure on it, feels like someone is poking it with a sharp needle. I think it's ingrowing, there's no pus, I've tried soaking it in warm salt water and squeezing, but all that comes out is watery stuff and a bit of blood.

Will it grow out itself , or will the nurse/gp do it?

Thanks

[webbo3]

sound like you have a whitlow.

http://uk.ask.com/web...qsrc=2892&l=&o=100075

im a bit of a nail biter and have had a few of these.



Dave.

[starone]

Never heard of an ingrowing fingernail, only toenail. More likely to have an infection in it as methyl said. I wouldn't hang about, best to get an expert opinion. It will just get worse if you leave it.

[Halifaxmum]

Thank you for your replies

[Sqad]

You are not very accurate in your description as to the EXACT site of the swelling, but my guess is that it is a paronychia.

No big deal.

See your GP as you "may" need antibiotics.

[Halifaxmum]

Sqad - it is swollen and red down the side of the nail, the other side and cuticle are fine. The skin next to it is starting to go hard too.

No big deal ;)

[LyndaB]

Sounds like what my nanna used to call a "gathering" (don't ask why lol). I too have had loads when I used to bite my nails. Use Germolene, then cover with a plaster. Mine always used to be ok after a day or two.

[Sqad]

Ah! right......it is a paronychia and i must say that i agree with LyndaB's "nanna."

Certainly worth going to your GP for perhaps antibiotic cream.

[Halifaxmum]

Thank you Lynda and Sqad :) x