The Treatment And Symptoms Of Herpetic Whitlow
Having herpetic whitlow means that you have an infection on your fingers or around your fingernails. It is caused by a virus called herpes simplex (HSV). Other names of this disease include digital herpes simplex, hand herpes and finger herpes. The lesions caused by the herpes virus are very painful, especially when ulcerated or ruptured.
60% of all infections are caused by the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1), whilst the remaining 40% are caused by herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV2).
In addition to being painful, it is very contagious. The lesion when broken produces a pus or reddish white liquid, and if this comes in contact with another host site, the infection can spread to this new host. These lesions have the appearance of small blisters.
Whilst anybody can contract herpetic whitlow, the two main groups are children who suck their thumbs and health care providers. The former can also develop oral infections, whilst the later are at risk from the daily routine of caring for patients. Health care providers are constantly reminded of the importance of wearing gloves to prevent direct contact with the fluids of their patients. The infection is highly contagious.
To transfer the infection from one person to another, all that is needed is for the liquid to find a crack or break in the skin to establish itself. Normally after a two day period, the newly infected person will then show signs of herpetic whitlow himself.
In extreme cases, patients may suffer fever and body pains. A tingling sensation in the affected finger is also not uncommon.
When looking at how to manage herpetic whitlow, always seek medical attention to avoid worsening the condition and infecting other people. One proven method is to take acetaminophen or ibuprofen as prescribed by your health care provider to relieve the symptoms.
You can use ice packs and cold compresses to help in managing the pain brought about by the vesicles.
Herpetic whitlow is very contagious, so follow infection control guidelines strictly to avoid contaminating other individuals.
Want to find out more about herpetic whitlow and other fingernail problems, then check out how to solve an ingrown fingernail, or even yellow toenails.