What is a common sign of a nail infection?

A common sign of a nail infection includes swelling and redness around the affected area. This occurs as the body responds to the infection, triggering inflammation. The presence of swelling is an indication that the immune system is actively working to combat the invading pathogens, while the redness signifies increased blood flow to the area, a response that often accompanies infection. These symptoms can be observed along the nail bed or surrounding skin, helping to identify the presence of an infection.

While other signs such as pain and changes in nail color may also occur, they are not as definitive in indicating an infection as swelling and redness. For instance, persistent sharp pain could relate to various issues, including trauma or other conditions, rather than specifically pointing to an infection. Thus, when assessing for a nail infection, the presence of swelling and redness is a key indicator that healthcare professionals, including nail technicians, look for to determine if further evaluation or treatment is necessary.