What is felon finger infection?

An infection of the pad of the finger is called a felon. The finger is made up of several small areas of tissue. Because of this, pus from an infection can build up with no place to go. Then the infection can spread deeper into the finger. Sometimes it can spread into the bone.

Can finger felon heal with antibiotics?

Felon finger is a bacterial infection in the pad of your fingertip. It causes pain, swelling and redness. If not treated immediately, a pus-filled sac (abscess) can form. Early-stage felon finger infections can usually be treated with antibiotics.

How do you treat felon fingers?

A conservative approach is to treat the felon finger by soaking it in warm water and elevating it for about 10–15 minutes, three or four times a day. Elevation by resting the finger above the level of the heart can also prove beneficial. In addition, a provider may prescribe antibiotics to be taken at home.

Is a felon finger serious?

A felon is an infection of the soft tissue (pulp) of the fingertip, usually caused by bacteria. A felon can lead to a pocket of pus (abscess) inside the fingertip, which creates pressure on and causes death of nearby tissues.

Should I go to ER for finger felon?

Because of the complications that can occur from a felon, you should see your doctor and go to an emergency room for immediate care if you develop sudden or severe pain or swelling in a finger.

How do you get rid of felon infection?

Treatment involves incision and drainage of the infected pulp space and oral antibiotics. If left untreated the underlying bone, joint, or tendons may become infected. This activity describes the pathophysiology of felon and highlights the role of the interprofessional team in its management.

What antibiotics are used for felons?

Treatment recommendations

• Amoxicillin-clavulanate (875mg/125mg) PO BID or.
• Cephalexin 500mg PO QID or.
• Clindamycin 300-450mg PO TID or.
• Trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (160mg/800mg) 1 DS tablet PO BID.
• Duration of treatment: 7-10d.

How long does a finger felon last?

Because an enlarging abscess in the finger reduces blood supply into the area, it is hard for your body’s immune system to fight this type of infection. Felons almost always need to be opened and drained by a doctor before they can heal. Most clear up within days to weeks.