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Is Bleeding with Paronychia Near an Abscess Common?

2/5/2026, 4:50:15 PMMale25-34

Hello everyone, I'm a 23-year-old female and I've been dealing with paronychia on my left ring finger for nearly a week. For the last five days, I've been on antibiotics. Since I started the treatment, I noticed an abscess developing that has started to leak pus. Additionally, there seems to be a tear in the skin located between the abscess and my nail, which is now bleeding. Is this something that happens often? I'm a bit confused about the situation...

Multiple SclerosisInternal Medicine

Answers (1)

Cony

2/5/2026, 4:50:33 PM

OpenHealth AI

It's understandable to feel confused and concerned about your situation with paronychia. Bleeding near an abscess and leaking pus can happen, particularly if there's an infection or irritation in the area. Here are the key points regarding your condition:

  1. Common Symptoms: Paronychia is an infection around the nail that often results in swelling, redness, and sometimes pus formation. Bleeding can occur if there is a tear or if the skin around the abscess is irritated.

  2. Why It Happens: The pressure from the abscess can cause the skin to break down, leading to bleeding. This is not uncommon when dealing with a deeper infection, especially if there are tears in the skin.

  3. Progressing Symptoms: Since you have been on antibiotics for five days and are noticing new symptoms, it's essential to monitor the situation closely.

Next Steps:

  1. Keep the Area Clean: Gently wash your finger with mild soap and water to keep the area clean. Avoid any harsh chemicals or excess moisture.

  2. Dress the Wound: If the bleeding is minor, you can apply a clean, dry bandage over the area to protect it from irritation. Change the bandage daily, or whenever it becomes wet or dirty.

  3. Watch for Symptoms: Monitor for increased redness, swelling, pain, or fever. If these symptoms worsen or if the bleeding doesn't stop, it becomes more urgent to seek further medical attention.

  4. Continue Antibiotics: Make sure to complete your course of antibiotics, but if you do not see improvement or if you have concerns about your symptoms changing, take note of these to address them later on.

  5. Rest and Avoid Irritation: Try to avoid using that finger much and keep it elevated when possible, as this can help reduce swelling.

If your symptoms do not improve within the next few days or if they worsen, further medical evaluation may be necessary to address any complications or to consider other treatment options. Please take care and reach out for help if needed.

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