Pseudomonas on the fingernail is an annoying and sometimes painful condition that many people encounter. It is caused by a bacteria called Pseudomonas aeruginosa, which can be found in baths, saunas, swimming pools and other moist environments. If your nails are exposed to this bacteria, it can lead to an infection. In this blog, you will learn what pseudomonas is, how it manifests itself and how you can treat it.

What is pseudomonas of the fingernail?

Pseudomonas on the fingernail is an infection that develops in the cuticles and nail plate under the artificial product. The infection can occur due to damage to the (artificial) nail, such as tearing, lifting, damage during manicure treatments or cross-contamination. In addition, the risk of infection is greater in people with a weakened immune system, such as diabetics or people undergoing chemotherapy.

Symptoms of pseudomonas on the fingernail

Symptoms of pseudomonas of the fingernail include:

• Pain and swelling in the cuticles
• Green or brown discoloration on the nail plate
• A burning or itching sensation
• An unpleasant odor from the nail
• Pus from the nail

Treatment of pseudomonas on the fingernail

If you have pseudomonas on your fingernail, it is important to treat the infection to prevent further spread and complications. This bacteria is very contagious. There is a chance that you will infect multiple nails or those of others.

Do you as a nail stylist notice a pseudomonas bacteria on your client's nail? Always refer the client to the GP for expert and/or medical advice. Also do not place any artificial nail product on the infected pseudomonas nail. This gives the bacteria more chance to grow.

Below are some treatment methods:

• Antibiotics: Antibiotics can help fight the bacteria responsible for the infection. It is important to use antibiotics as directed by your doctor.
  
  
• Acid: Are you unable to go to the doctor immediately? Then take a cotton ball and soak it with natural vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Place the cotton ball on the infected nail and wrap it in aluminum foil. Let this soak in for about 5 minutes. Then wash your hands with lukewarm water and unicura hand soap and pat your hands dry with a piece of kitchen roll. It is best not to use textile towels to reduce the risk of cross-contamination.
  
  
• Saltwater baths: Saltwater baths can help soften the nail and reduce pain and swelling. Add half a cup of baking soda to warm water and soak your finger in the water for 10-15 minutes.
  
  
• Nail Care: It is important to care for your nails by keeping them clean and dry.

Prevention of pseudomonas on the fingernail

To prevent pseudomonas on the fingernail, it is important to observe a number of hygiene measures. Below you will find a number of tips to prevent pseudomonas on the fingernail:

1. Wash your hands regularly
   Washing your hands regularly with soap and water can help reduce bacteria that can build up on your skin.
   
   
2. Dry your hands thoroughly
   After washing your hands, it is important to dry them thoroughly with a clean towel or paper towels
   
   
3. Avoid sharing non-disinfected and sterile manicure tools and files:
   If you share manicure tools such as cuticle pushers or files with others, you can transmit bacteria that can cause pseudomonas.
   
   Tip! Do you visit a salon regularly? Make sure they use new files for each client and that manicure tools are disinfected.
   
   
4. Visit the nail stylist regularly
   If you visit the nail stylist regularly, read every 3 to 4 weeks, you can ensure that any problems with your nails are quickly noticed and treated.
   
   
5. Swimming pools and saunas
   Be extra careful when visiting public pools, gyms and other public places where there are a lot of people. Especially if you notice that your artificial nail product has lifted.
   
   
6. Treat any damage to the artificial nail immediately
   If you have any damage to your artificial nail such as lifting, chipping, cracks or breaks, it is important to have these treated as soon as possible to reduce the risk of infection.

In case you have developed pseudomonas on the fingernail, it is important to see a doctor for proper treatment. Taking these preventive measures and following medical recommendations can help prevent further escalations of pseudomonas on the fingernail.