Nail infection

A bacterial nail infection (paronychia) happens when bacteria get into the cuticle or skin around the nail. The skin around the nail can become tender and pus can build up around the wound, which may require antibiotics.*

A fungal nail infection (onychomycosis) may start with a white or yellow spot under the fingernail or toenail. As the infection spreads, it can cause thickened nails with a crumbled edge. It’s more common in toenails, but it can also affect fingernails.*

A MinuteClinic provider can help determine if an infection is bacterial or fungal and discuss possible nail infection treatments. They’ll also review medical history and provide a treatment plan. Depending on the cause of the infection, a provider may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medication, if needed.

1. You may have to answer a few questions to help us prepare for your visit prior to scheduling your appointment.

2. Check-in varies depending on how you scheduled your appointment:

   If you made your appointment online:
   Check in using the email or text message we sent to confirm your appointment. If you prefer to check in using the electronic kiosk, make sure you have your confirmation code.

   If you made your appointment in the clinic:
   Sign in at the electronic kiosk.

   If you made a MinuteClinic Virtual Care® appointment:
   To join your virtual visit, use the link in the email or text message we sent you to confirm your appointment. Please join 15 minutes before your scheduled visit time. You will need your date of birth and ZIP code to join the visit.

3. When it's time for your appointment, a provider will call your name.
4. Your provider will conduct a thorough examination based on your reason for visit, presenting symptoms and health history. Charges will be based on examination and services provided during the visit.
5. At the end of your visit, you are provided with a visit summary, receipt and educational material. At your request, we can send your primary care provider information about your visit.

Depending on whether a person is experiencing acute or chronic paronychia, symptoms around the nail can be mild to severe:

• Pain
• Pus
• Redness
• Swelling
• Tenderness 

Bacteria enters the skin, causing an infection. Bacteria can enter through broken skin, a cut or a hangnail. It can also enter through an ingrown nail or direct trauma to the nail. Chemicals and medication* can also cause bacterial nail infections.

There are multiple ways to prevent bacterial nail infections:*

• Don’t chew nails or pick at the cuticles.
• Don’t trim nails and cuticles too short.
• Wash hands regularly.
• Wear waterproof gloves when handling certain chemicals to prevent chemicals and moisture from staying in contact with the skin.

A fungal nail infection starts as a discoloration of the nail and can deepen and move to other nails. Other symptoms can include the following:

• Brittle, crumbly or ragged edges
• A distorted shape
• A slightly pungent smell
• Thickened nails
• Yellow or brown color

A fungal nail infection is caused by an overgrowth of fungi around the nail. Fungi develop under warm, moist conditions. While infections can occur in both fingernails and toenails, they are most common in toenails. Some types of shoes can trap warm and moist air, allowing fungi to grow. Fungi can also spread from person to person. 

Here are a few ways you can prevent nail fungus:*

• Good washing habits: Regularly wash hands and feet. Wash hands after touching an infected nail.
• Trim fingernails and toenails: Be sure to smooth the edges and file down any thickened areas. Use a disinfectant on nail clippers after each use.
• Avoid sweaty feet: If someone’s feet are more prone to sweat, they can wear sweat-absorbing socks or change socks throughout the day.
• Keep feet clean and dry: Wear shoes made of breathable materials. Discard old shoes or treat them regularly with disinfectants or antifungal powders. Avoid walking barefoot in public bathing areas.

A MinuteClinic provider can help determine if an infection is bacterial or fungal and discuss possible nail infection treatments. They’ll also review medical history and provide a treatment plan. Depending on the cause of the infection, a provider may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medication, if needed.