Staying Healthy
Are cracked cuticles harmful?
Ask the doctor
Every year when the weather turns cold, my cuticles become dry and cracked. They look ghastly, but can they also harm my health?But cuticles are somewhat delicate and can be damaged when we bite or trim them, encouraging cracks and fraying. A nail infection known as paronychia can result when bacteria enter this broken skin, leading to a red, swollen, painful area around the nail. If the infection isn't treated, nail health can suffer. Nails can grow abnormally, turn yellow or green, develop ridges, and even fall off. Mild nail infections can be treated at home by soaking the infected nail area in warm water for about 15 minutes several times a day. If symptoms don't improve, see your doctor, since the infection may need to be drained with a tiny cut or you may need antibiotics to clear it up.
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About the Author
Toni Golen, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Women's Health Watch; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing; Contributor
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