$Unique_ID{BRK00970}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Where do Hangnails Come From?}
$Subject{fingernail fingernails hangnail nail nails Skin degreasing agents
infected inflamed soreness infection tearing hand drying infections}
$Volume{L-20}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Where do Hangnails Come From?


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QUESTION:  I have a difficult time keeping my hands clean because of my job,
but have real troubles with hangnails.  It may seem like too simple a problem
to include in your column, but let me tell you, it is no joke for the person
who has the pain.  Where do these things come from, and what is the solution?

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ANSWER:  No problem is too simple to be dealt with here, especially when it is
such a common situation that can affect many readers.  I would be willing to
wager that there will be many who write with information about their own
successful methods of treating the common hangnail.  The hangnail is really
not nail at all, but a small spit of skin which occurs around the nail and is
the result of trauma to the fingers, dryness and the use of degreasing agents
for cleaning the hands, including soap.  Most of the pain develops when the
hangnail becomes infected and inflamed.  Then the familiar redness and
soreness develops, often leading to sharp and constant pain.  The infection is
provoked by tearing the hangnail away, instead of the recommended technique of
cleanly cutting away the excess skin with a scissor or clipper.  Sometimes the
source of infection is from the mouth, as many people habitually try to trim
the hangnail with their teeth.  Any tearing of the skin, in the presence of
bacteria, opens the door to a painful infection.  Prevention is the best
course, regularly using a hand cream or moisture cream to keep the skin soft
and prevent drying.  When a low grade infection sets in, the use of an
ointment containing an antibiotic is useful in controlling the problem.  If
the infection becomes more severe, it is time for a doctor visit and a
prescription for oral antibiotics.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.