Finger Infection

If you suffer from a finger infection, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.

What Is A Finger Infection?

A finger infection refers to an infection that occurs in the tissues of the finger, typically involving the skin, underlying structures, or both. It can occur due to various causes, including cuts, wounds, bites, or breaks in the skin that allow bacteria or other microorganisms to enter and multiply.

Common types of finger infections include:

1. Paronychia: This is an infection that affects the skin around the fingernail or toenail. It can be caused by bacteria or fungi and may result in redness, swelling, pain, and pus formation.
2. Cellulitis: Cellulitis is a bacterial infection that can occur in any part of the body, including the fingers. It typically causes redness, warmth, swelling, and tenderness in the affected area.
3. Felon: A felon is an infection that affects the pulp of the fingertip, usually caused by bacteria. It can cause severe throbbing pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty in moving the finger.
4. Deep space infection: In some cases, an infection can spread beyond the surface tissues and involve the deeper structures of the finger, such as the tendons, joints, or bone. This type of infection is usually more serious and may require immediate medical attention.

Indication Of A Finger Infection

Symptoms of a finger infection may include:

1. Pain or tenderness in the finger
2. Redness, warmth, or swelling in the affected area
3. Pus or discharge
4. Difficulty in moving the finger or stiffness
5. Fever or chills (in more severe cases)

If you suspect a finger infection, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment. A healthcare professional will typically evaluate the infection based on the symptoms, and physical examination, and may order additional tests, such as a wound culture or blood tests, to identify the causative organism and guide treatment decisions.

Treatments For A Finger Infection

Treatment for finger infections may include:

1. Antibiotics: Depending on the type and severity of the infection, oral or intravenous antibiotics may be prescribed to eliminate the infection-causing bacteria.
2. Incision and drainage: If there is an abscess (collection of pus), a healthcare professional may need to drain it surgically to remove the pus and promote healing.
3. Warm water soaks: Soaking the finger in warm water can help alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and promote healing.
4. Pain management: Over-the-counter pain medications may be recommended to manage pain and discomfort associated with the infection.

It is important to follow the prescribed treatment plan, take the full course of antibiotics as directed, keep the finger clean and dry, and follow any specific care instructions provided by the healthcare professional.

Complications of untreated or poorly managed finger infections can include the spread of infection to other parts of the body, damage to surrounding tissues or structures, and the development of chronic infections.

If you notice signs of a finger infection, it is best to seek prompt medical attention to prevent complications and promote proper healing.

If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.