You can treat a swollen sore finger by:
- Apply an antibacterial ointment on the affected area after cleaning and drying the hand well. Place a bandage over the finger to speed up the healing process and prevent further infection. If the bandage gets soaked, remove it and allow the skin to breathe and dry before applying another.
- Soak the affected finger in warm water up to four times a day. By doing this you may be able to catch the infection early on and avoid taking any antibiotics. Add Epsom salts to the water to improve the results.
- Apply ice on the area to reduce pain and swelling. In such cases, an over-the-counter painkiller may help as well.
- In case the infection has spread, oral antibiotics or creams may be unavoidable. Speak to your doctor about what medication to take and for how long.
- Moisturizing your hands and fingers several times a day. If the weather is cold or dry, make sure you use a thick cream or lotion that protects the skin from chapping and dryness. Take time and massage the cream into your cuticles and nails to keep them healthy.
- If your fingers are exposed to water, chemicals or cleansers, make sure you wear gloves to protect the skin on your hands. This also helps prevent the spread of infections.
- When you notice the beginnings of a hangnail, soak your fingers in warm water and oil solution to soften the nails. Use a sterilized nail scissors and clip the hangnail carefully. At all costs avoid tearing away the hangnail or biting it off.
- Get regular manicures to prevent hangnails from developing.
answered by A S