PARONYCHIA

    Paronychia is an infection or inflammation of the tissues around a fingernail or toenail. Some researchers maintain that yeast such as Candida albicans or bacteria such as Pseudomonas or Proteus cause it. However, the most common cause is usually staphylococcus, with Candida as a secondary invader.

    It enters through a break in the skin. It will usually first appear as white patches or a lifting or thickening of one edge of the nail plate. The infection may follow the nail margin and may extend beneath the nail where the infection penetrates more deeply into the finger or toe. 

    Tissue breakdown into the tendons and  muscle in the finger or toe may result. Eventually the infected nail may become distorted and lose normal function if not treated promptly.

    Early detection and treatment is important. Wash the affected area with Antibacterial Liquid Soap. Soak for 15 minutes in 1 quart of warm water and 1 oz of Sol-V-Mel. Pat dry. Apply T36-C5 to the fingerrnaiI or toenail morning and night, and then follow with Triple Antibiotic Ointment or MelaGel. Cover the area with a loose bandage. Chronic infections may require repeated applications for several months. If Candida albicans is the causative agent in a female, douching with Nalure's Cleanse may be needed to reduce the fungus. Drink Melaleuca Herbal Tea 2 to 4 times each day.

An alternate choice would be to clean the affected area with Antibacterial Liquid Soap and then apply Dermatin Antifungal Creme.