Had a hang nail get infected got the puss out but now still red and swollen and sensitive and numb but not as bad as when puss was there. Want reddness and swelling gone have only been using hot salty water. Any other suggestions

You can dab tea tree oil on it.

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Originally Posted by rclayton4

had a hang nail get infected got the puss out but now still red and swollen and sensitive and numb but not as bad as when puss was there. want reddness and swelling gone have only been using hot salty water. any other suggestions

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This is called paronychia and because it is an actual medical condition you should make an appointment with your doctor. You may think you have gotten all of the pus (bacteria) out but since you are still feeling numbness, there is more than likely still pus in the area. You will need to be on an antibiotic to get rid of the infection.

The doctor will numb the finger with some spray and just scratch the surface of the finger and squeeze any remaining fluid out. The warm water soaks about 4 times a day is a good idea and will bring anything else to the surface, but squeezing and soaking alone will not cure the infection. And you do not want a little infection spreading, especially into your hand. I hope this helps.

I have the same problem! what i do is a get VERY HOT water and then add bleach. I soak the infection in it for 15min. If you did it completely then it should burst and the bleach should get rid of any remaining bacteria. You can also try soaking it in hot water and white vinegar. If it stings then add more water. Hope this helped!