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<p><b>New page</b></p><div>[[file:Hangnail_on_left_hand_pinkie_01.jpg|thumb|left]] {{Short description|Small, torn piece of skin near a fingernail or toenail}}<br />
{{Infobox medical condition (new)<br />
| name = Hangnail<br />
| image = <br />
| caption = <br />
| field = [[Dermatology]]<br />
| symptoms = Pain, redness, swelling<br />
| complications = [[Infection]]<br />
| duration = <br />
| causes = Dry skin, nail biting, frequent hand washing<br />
| risks = <br />
| prevention = Moisturizing, avoiding nail biting<br />
| treatment = Trimming, moisturizing, antiseptic<br />
| prognosis = Good with proper care<br />
| frequency = Common<br />
}}<br />
<br />
A '''hangnail''' is a small, torn piece of skin near a [[fingernail]] or [[toenail]]. Despite its name, a hangnail is not a problem with the nail itself. Hangnails are common and can be painful, especially if they become infected.<br />
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== Causes ==<br />
Hangnails are typically caused by dry skin, which can result from frequent hand washing, exposure to harsh chemicals, or cold weather. Other common causes include [[nail biting]] and improper nail care.<br />
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== Symptoms ==<br />
The primary symptoms of a hangnail include:<br />
* Pain around the affected area<br />
* Redness and swelling<br />
* Possible bleeding if the hangnail is torn off<br />
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== Complications ==<br />
If a hangnail is not properly treated, it can lead to an [[infection]] known as [[paronychia]]. This infection can cause increased pain, swelling, and pus formation around the nail.<br />
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== Prevention ==<br />
Preventing hangnails involves maintaining proper nail and skin care. Some preventive measures include:<br />
* Regularly moisturizing the hands and cuticles<br />
* Avoiding nail biting and picking at the skin around the nails<br />
* Using gloves when exposed to harsh chemicals or when washing dishes<br />
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== Treatment ==<br />
Treatment for a hangnail includes:<br />
* Trimming the hangnail with clean, sharp scissors or nail clippers to prevent further tearing<br />
* Applying a moisturizing lotion or cuticle oil to the affected area<br />
* Using an antiseptic to prevent infection if the hangnail is torn or bleeding<br />
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== See also ==<br />
* [[Nail (anatomy)]]<br />
* [[Paronychia]]<br />
* [[Dermatology]]<br />
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== References ==<br />
{{Reflist}}<br />
<br />
[[Category:Dermatology]]<br />
[[Category:Skin conditions]]<br />
[[Category:Medical conditions]]<br />
<br />
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