What Does a Bacterial Infection Look Like on a Finger? – A finger occurring bacterial infection can develop rapidly, usually starting with mild redness or tenderness around the nail or skin. If its untreated, theinfection can ultimately make movement of the finger difficult. Recognizing the early signs of a finger bacterial infection can help mitigate and prevent progression of complication, as well as promote resolution and recovery with less delay.
What Does a Bacterial Infection Look Like on a Finger?
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What Does a Bacterial Infection Look Like on a Finger? – Common Signs of Bacterial Finger Infections
- Redness and Swelling
- The area of skin around the nail or injured site is red with increased swelling, may even begin to spread to other areas of the finger.
- Pain and Tenderness
- The finger is tender to touch or press.
- Pain usually increases as the infection gets worse as the wound or injury worsens.
- Heat in the Area of Infection
- The infected skin will feel warmer than the surrounding skin.
- This is caused by increased blood flow as the body responds to fight the bacteria.
- Pus or Fluid Build-Up
- Yellow or green discharge should be observed under the nails.
- In small abscesses the infection may be deeper than at the surface of the skin.
- Changes to the Nail
- Infection around the nail can cause the nail to lift.
- The cuticle may become swollen and painful as well.
- Trouble Moving the Finger
- If you have a serious infection, the severity of an infection may make it difficult to bend or straighten your finger.
- If your finger is stiff, or it is throbbing and hurting, this may be a sign that something is wrong.
What Does a Bacterial Infection Look Like on a Finger? – When to consult a physician
- If the swelling appears to be progressing beyond your finger.
- If your finger is joined by fever, chills, or severe pain.
- If you have not seen your pus leak out on its own (outside of it being cultured and examined for antibiotics) or is coming back.
What Does a Bacterial Infection Look Like on a Finger? – Conclusion
What Does a Bacterial Infection Look Like on a Finger? – Common bacterial infections in/around a finger will appear red, swollen, and tender, with or without pus and/or changes to the nail. A mild bacterial infection could improve with warm soaks and good hygiene, but when the signs/symptoms worsen we must seek professional medical care, remembering our goal of further complications. We believe that seeking treatment early in any course of infection will help us hopefully recover quicker and reduce the chance any further inflammation and/or infection arises.
