Hand Infection Treatment Charleston, WV

Hands become infected more frequently as it is one of the commonly injured parts of our body. Hand infections, if left untreated or treated improperly can cause disabilities such as stiffness, contracture, weakness, and loss of tissues (skin, nerve and bone) that persist even after the infection resolves. Therefore, prompt treatment of hand infections is important.

Infections of the hand include:

Paronychia

Paronychia is an infection of the nail fold or cuticle area present around the fingernail. Paronychia may be acute or chronic infection. Acute paronychia is a bacterial infection and causes pain, redness, and swelling around the nail. It is caused by superficial trauma that may occur during nail biting or finger sucking. It can be treated with antibiotics and if pus forms, it needs to be drained. Chronic paronychia is a result of fungal infection and it causes milder symptoms such as mild pain, redness or swelling, with little or no pus. It occurs most commonly in people whose hands are often wet or are immunocompromised. The treatment for chronic paronychia consists of avoiding constant exposure to moisture and application of topical steroid and antifungal ointments.

Felon

Felon is a serious infection of the fatty tissues of finger tips which results in throbbing pain. It is caused due to direct entry of bacteria during a penetrating injury or by spread of infection from untreated paronychia. If there is an abscess, surgical drainage is done following which antibiotics will be prescribed.

Herpetic Whitlow

Herpetic whitlow is a herpes simplex virus infection of the fingers. It is more common in healthcare workers whose hands are exposed to the patient’s saliva which may carry the virus. Herpetic whitlow presents small, swollen, painful blisters. Conservative treatment for herpetic whitlow involves application of a dry gauze dressing to the affected finger to avoid spread of infection.

Septic arthritis/osteomyelitis

Septic arthritis is a severe infection of the joint caused by a wound or a draining cyst. The bacterial infection may cause destruction of the joint by eroding away the joint cartilage. Surgical drainage should be done as soon as possible because the condition may get complicated if the infection spreads to the bone causing osteomyelitis.

Deep space infections

Deep fascial spaces are the potential spaces in between the different structures of the hand.  These spaces tend to get infected through penetrating wounds or spread of infection from blood. Deep space infections may occur in the thumb, the palm or in the area between the bases of fingers. Treatment for deep space infections includes antibiotic therapy, pain relieving medications, and surgical drainage.

Tendon sheath infection

Tendon sheath infection is the infection of the flexor tendon which occurs because of a small laceration or penetrating wound on the finger, near a joint. It causes severe stiffness of the finger accompanied by redness, swelling and pain. This condition may also lead to destruction and rupture of the tendon. Therefore, it demands the immediate surgical drainage.

Atypical mycobacterial infections

Atypical mycobacterial infections are tendon sheath infections caused by an atypical mycobacterium. These infections cause stiffness and swelling without much pain and redness. Antibiotic treatment is given for several months following which surgical removal of the infected tendon sheath may be done.

Infections from bite wounds

Infections from animal or human bite are associated with bacteria such as Streptococcus and Staphylococcus, Eikenella corrodens (human bite injuries) and Pasteurella multocida (dog and cat bite injuries). These wounds are given initial treatment and left open to allow the infection to drain out. Surgical trimming of infected or crushed tissue may be done.



Hand to Shoulder Center of Wisconsin

If you believe you are experiencing signs of a hand or finger infection, including swelling and redness, drainage or pus, severe pain, or stiffness and fever, contact Hand to Shoulder Center of Wisconsin in Appleton or Green Bay, WI. Our team of orthopedic specialists have experience diagnosing finger and hand infections, and are here to provide you with treatment options.

Finger Infections (Felon, Paronychial and Tendon Sheath Infections)

An infection is caused when another organism (bacteria) gets inside the body and reproduces. The organism is often referred to as a parasitic organism or an infectious agent. Most organisms enter into the body through open wounds. Since the hand can easily be injured during everyday activities, any trauma involving an open wound allows damaging organisms to enter. The anatomy of the hand also may aid in the development of an infection with its compartmentalized structure.

Hand and/or finger infection (Fig. 1) can cause mild to severe problems even after the infection has been resolved. Stiffness, loss of strength and tissue can be affected by the infection. However, if treated early and effectively, most infections can be eliminated with antibiotics, rest, elevation, and other non-operative actions. Failure to properly treat infections may result in permanent disability or even loss of the digit.

Figure 1: Infected Finger

Symptoms of an Infection

Symptoms of an infection may include:

• Pain and/or severe throbbing pain
• Low to high grade fever
• Stiffness with movement that may produce excruciating pain
• Swelling and redness
• Drainage or pus

At Hand to Shoulder Center of Wisconsin, we provide comprehensive treatment for common infections of the upper extremity, including treatment of but not limited to:

• Paronychia – an infection of the finger that involves the tissue at the nail’s fold; primarily caused by a bacterial infection.
• Felon – an infection of the soft tissue in the fingertip pad.
• Cellulitis – this is a superficial infection that involves the skin and underlying tissue.
• Tendon sheath infection (Fig. 2) – an infection that involves the tendon sheaths that are responsible for flexing or closing the hand.
• Bite wound – harmful bacteria can be found in the mouth of an animal or human causing an infection to develop.
• Deep space infection – typically a severe infection of one or several deep structures of the hand or fingers that require surgical drainage.

Figure 2: Tendon sheath infection

Diagnosis and Treatment

At Hand to Shoulder Center of Wisconsin, our subspecialty-trained orthopedic surgeons conduct a thorough examination. Review of medical history is discussed along with a physical and visual evaluation.

In treating an infection (Fig. 3), it will depend on the degree of the infection; some early infections can be managed with oral antibiotics, while others may require intravenous antibiotics in a hospital setting.

Figure 3: Inflamed and infected finger

In treating an infection with drainage the physician may order an x-ray to determine if a foreign body is present. If a foreign body is present, steps to surgically remove it are often taken. A small incision is made, the wound is flushed out to remove debris and infected material. The material is often sent to a laboratory for testing to determine the type of bacteria causing the infection. Antibiotics are prescribed and postoperative monitoring is conducted by the physician. In some cases, the infection may spread to other areas of the body, which can ultimately result in amputation of the body part, or death, if not treated by a physician in a timely manner. It is highly important that wound infections are treated with proper care. In some cases of severe infection, intravenous antibiotics may be given to combat severe blood infection (sepsis).

Rehabilitation

A physical or occupational therapist will perform hands-on techniques to aid in decreasing and relieving pain while focusing on restoring pain-free range of motion. Muscle strengthening and decreasing stress on the joints by using braces and splints may be applied. Modalities such as ultrasound and heat/ice are often used to help control pain, facilitate motion and control swelling. Early rehabilitation treatment protocols include a home exercise program to encourage range of motion and restoring functional use of the hand.

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A LITTLE ABOUT THE BEAUTY OF NAILS | Science and life

Nails are always in sight – whether we like it or not. The main function of nails is to protect sensitive fingertips, but, in addition, it is also a convenient handy tool that helps to work with small objects, and a natural decoration. In any case, nails deserve to be taken care of, and not only for women, but also for men. The beauty of nails depends on proper nutrition, general health and regular proper care.

HOW THE NAIL

Science and life // Illustrations

Science and life // Illustrations

Science and life // Illustrations

Science and life // Illustrations

Science and life // Illustrations

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A nail is a hard elastic plate formed by layers of keratinized cells, which consist of keratin protein. At the base of the nail there is a light semicircular zone – the nail hole. Usually it is clearly visible on the thumb, worse – on the rest. Under the hole is the nail matrix – a layer of cells from which the nail plate grows. The area of ​​skin on which the nail rests is called the nail bed. From the sides, the nail is surrounded by skin folds – nail folds. The thin cuticle, or cuticle, covering the back of the nail protects the nail matrix from damage and infection, so the cuticle should never be cut off and treated with caustic agents. As the plate grows, it slides over the nail bed. A nail grows by an average of 0.1 mm per day, and is completely renewed in 4-6 months.

COMMON PROBLEMS

Burrs . The appearance of hangnails is a signal that the skin of the nail fold has become too dry due to frequent washing of hands, cold weather or adverse working conditions. Resist the temptation to tear off or gnaw off the hangnail – this way you can bring the infection. A dry piece of skin should be carefully trimmed at the base with nail scissors or nippers. To avoid the appearance of hangnails, after each wash, lubricate the skin of the nail fold with a nourishing cream.

Nail biting . Teeth are far from the best tool for processing nails. Unevenly bitten nails can spoil the impression of the most beautiful hands. In addition, the habit of nail biting can cause deformation of the nails and infection of the nail fold, so try to get rid of it. It is not so difficult, the main thing is to want. Helpful Hints: Always keep a nail file handy; wear gloves. You can also try smearing your nails with fresh aloe juice. The bitter taste of this plant will immediately remind you that there are more civilized ways to trim the edge of the nail.

Brittle, brittle and splitting nails . Nails lose strength due to frequent contact with water and caustic detergents. When doing laundry, washing dishes or wet cleaning, wear waterproof gloves, preferably with a cotton fiber inner layer. You can use two pairs of gloves: bottom – cotton, top – rubber.

A good nail strengthener and skin softener is plain yogurt (no sugar, preservatives or other additives). It can be used in the form of baths, compresses or massage. Baths of warm olive or almond oil with a few drops of essential oils of lavender, chamomile or sage are useful. An ancient strengthening agent is henna paste, it is applied to the nails for 10 minutes once a week.

Grooves, ridges, stripes. Longitudinal grooves usually appear on the nails
with age. Transverse wavy ridges and stripes – marks indicating that
at some point in time, the normal growth of the nail was disturbed due to nutritional deficiency,
disease, drug reactions.

Nail color change . The nail itself is colorless and transparent. Its middle part looks pink, because it is tightly pressed against the nail bed, saturated with blood capillaries. Color changes are due to various reasons. Too pale nails can be a sign of anemia, a bluish or purple hue is sometimes associated with diseases of the cardiovascular or respiratory system. Yellowing of the nails is usually the result of dark polishes, but can be caused by drugs such as tetracycline, smoking, or a fungal infection. To whiten your nails, rub them with a slice of lemon.

Fungal infection . If the nail thickens, begins to crumble, turns white or turns yellow, it makes sense to consult a doctor, as these signs are very characteristic of fungal diseases. From herbal remedies, aloe juice or tea tree oil can be recommended.

THE SIMPEST MANICURE

You will need: a flexible nail file (but not a metal one – it is too rough), nippers or thin scissors, a towel, cotton balls, nail polish remover (without acetone), a bowl of warm water, soft nail brush, wooden or plastic cuticle pusher, moisturizer, nail balm or oil (almond, olive). Optional (optional): lacquer base, clear or colored lacquer, protective coating for lacquer.

The procedure is as follows.

1. Remove the old polish with quick, gentle strokes, being careful not to smear the polish on the nail fold.

2. Wash your hands, brush your nails with a soft brush, rinse and dry.

3. File your nails to the desired shape, such as oval or smooth rectangular. Do not file too hard at the corners so as not to weaken the nail. If the nails are too long, you can first use nippers or scissors. It is better to do this in advance, after a bath or shower. Only wet nails can be cut, and only dry nails can be filed. You need to file with smooth movements, from the edges to the middle. To check how smooth the edges have become, run your fingertips over old tights – your nails should not leave puffs.

4. Soak your fingers in warm water for a few minutes. You can add a decoction of chamomile to the water.

5. When the skin around the nails softens, gently push back the cuticle with a wooden or plastic stick. Do not cut the cuticle: it protects the nail root from bacteria and dirt. Cut off the burrs, if any, with small, sharp scissors.

6. Lubricate skin and nails with moisturizer, balm or vegetable oil and massage your hands for a few minutes. Massage improves blood circulation and nourishment of the nails.

7. Nails already look quite attractive. For more shine, you can polish them with a piece of suede. But if you still want to apply varnish, proceed to the next step.

8. Before applying polish, remove excess cream with a damp cloth and then wipe dry. If you used vegetable oil instead of a moisturizer, you will have to wipe your nails with nail polish remover.

To make the coating durable, the varnish is applied in several layers: first a colorless base, then one or two layers of colored varnish and, finally, a protective coating. Let each coat dry completely (usually 3-5 minutes). The colorless base protects the nails from the appearance of stains on them from colored varnish. Each layer is applied in three strokes with a brush, first in the center, then along the edges.

E. GLEBOV.

LITTLE TIPS

• Apply the varnish in a well-ventilated area so as not to inhale solvent fumes.
• Do not use products containing acetone: it degreases the nails and deprives them of their natural shine. Formaldehyde and toluene, which are part of some varnishes, sometimes cause allergic reactions.
• To prevent the cap from drying out, wipe the lacquer off the neck of the bottle before closing it. You can lubricate the thread with a thin layer of Vaseline.
• Two to three thin coats of nail polish last longer than one.
• Usually the shelf life of varnish is about two years. It can be extended if stored in the refrigerator. The same applies to cosmetic creams.
• While stirring the polish, roll the bottle between your palms. Shaking causes bubbles to form.

In the still waters. What dangers lie in wait for us at the reservoir in Novosibirsk0129 infectious disease specialist, doctor of the highest category

There are several open beaches in Novosibirsk, where thousands of people gather every summer. For us, these are places where you can have a great time, take a break from the heat and meet friends. But unfortunately, near any reservoir there is an increased risk of infection with various infections. Don’t worry – we’ll give you some tips on how to avoid infection and get some rest.

There are several groups of infections that can be contracted near a body of water.

1. Infections that can be contracted through the mouth by swallowing water while bathing.

Their pathogens can get into the water if there are remains of excrement there. This becomes relevant in case of accidents of sewer systems.

These include bacterial intestinal infections ranging from salmonellosis and dysentery to opportunistic infections; as well as viral infections, primarily enterovirus.

Many people remember the severe enterovirus outbreak that occurred in the summer of 2004. It was accompanied by the development of serous meningitis – a very dangerous disease.

To avoid infection, try not to swallow water, if this is not possible, rinse your mouth with clean water.

2. Infections – bacteria, viruses and fungi that enter the human body when bathing by contact – through the skin, conjunctiva of the eyes, mucous membranes of the genital organs, as well as when walking barefoot on wet sand.

We swim with a minimum of clothes and want to go barefoot on the beach. This circumstance increases the likelihood of infection through the skin and mucous membranes. Pathogens that penetrate the skin and conjunctiva can lead to the development of inflammation of the skin and eyes – dermatitis and conjunctivitis. Fungi can infect the skin between the toes, leading to the development of athlete’s foot – athlete’s foot.

If there are cracks between the toes, then cocci bacteria (streptococci, staphylococci) can penetrate into them. This is dangerous for the development of a skin infection – erysipelas. At risk are older people who have cracks in the skin of the legs (including those of a fungal nature) and vascular disorders of the lower extremities (varicose veins, diabetic vascular lesions).

To avoid infection, follow simple rules – do not open your eyes underwater, walk on the beach in flip flops, and rinse your eyes with clean water after swimming. When you get home, be sure to take a shower.

3. Infections that may not penetrate into our body when bathing in contact: for example, the fungal flora can fall into the human body with common sunbeds.

These can be fungi that cause dermatomycosis – trichophytosis, microsporia. They are highly contagious and difficult to treat. Bacteria can also get on the skin and cause various forms of skin infection (staphylo- and streptoderma). To avoid this, take a separate towel with you and lay it on a common sunbed.

Infections not directly associated with swimming and walking on sand and water: intestinal infections due to the consumption of perishable food on the beach, which has already been stored for several hours in hot weather. Be sure to wash your hands before eating, and also keep food fresh – do not take perishable food to the beach (salads with mayonnaise, meat, dairy products) to avoid poisoning.

4. Finally, do not forget about tick infections if the beach is located near the forest. Tick ​​season is now in full swing.

To avoid being bitten, you need to be careful: do not walk in light beach clothes into the thicket of the forest, inspect yourself and your companions for ticks, use repellents.

At the end of the article, we summarize all of the above. What precautions should be taken to avoid getting infected and not being afraid to visit the beaches?

Here are a few simple rules:

1. When bathing, avoid getting water in your mouth, do not swallow it. If this cannot be avoided, be sure to rinse your mouth after leaving the water.
2. It is not recommended to open your eyes underwater – for reasons of prevention of infections that enter the body through the conjunctiva of the eyes. Rinse your eyes well after visiting the beach.
3. Do not walk barefoot on the sand. Always use slippers.
4. Use a towel for lying on communal trestle beds.