Agnail

An agnail, more commonly known as a hangnail, refers to a small, torn piece of skin near a fingernail or toenail. Despite its name, a hangnail does not actually affect the nail itself but rather the skin around the nail bed. This condition can be painful, especially if the skin becomes irritated or infected.

Causes

Hangnails are primarily caused by dry skin around the nails. Other contributing factors may include:

• Frequent hand washing or exposure to water
• Dry climate or low humidity environments
• Harsh chemical exposure
• Nail biting or picking
• Manicure or pedicure procedures that damage the skin around nails

Prevention

Preventing agnails involves maintaining good nail hygiene and keeping the skin around the nails moisturized. Recommendations include:

• Regularly applying hand lotion or cuticle oil
• Wearing gloves when cleaning or doing dishes
• Using mild soaps and avoiding excessive hand washing
• Being gentle when pushing back cuticles during manicures

Treatment

Treatment for hangnails aims to prevent infection and relieve discomfort. Steps for treatment include:

• Do Not Pull: Avoid pulling the hangnail off, which can lead to further damage or infection.
• Softening: Soak the affected finger in warm water to soften the hangnail.
• Trimming: Carefully trim the hangnail with sterile scissors or clippers.
• Moisturizing: Apply a moisturizer or antibacterial cream after trimming.
• Protection: Cover with a bandage if necessary to prevent irritation from clothing or further injury.

When to See a Doctor

If the area around the hangnail becomes swollen, red, or pus-filled, it may be infected. Medical attention is advised to treat the infection and prevent complications. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics or recommend specific treatments to manage the infection.

Conclusion

While agnails are a common and minor issue, proper care and prevention can reduce their occurrence and prevent potential infections. Keeping the skin around the nails moisturized and avoiding damage to the area are key steps in managing and preventing hangnails.

Agnail Resources
Need Help Finding a Doctor? WikiMD's DocFinder can help find general and specialist physicians.	Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials.