A felon is an infection of the pulp space of the distal portion of a toe near the nail bed, the pulp region is a closed compartment. Obvious or inconspicuous trauma can penetrate the closed pulp space, deposit bacteria, and lead to pus formation. Collection of pus in this area creates pressure, impairing tissue perfusion and causing considerable pain. Generally, the infecting organism is S. aureus however, when lymphangitic streaks are present, hemolytic streptococci should be suspected. In immunocompromised patients, gram-negative organisms may be the offering agents. Failure to decompress a felon may result in contagious spread to the distal phalanx, distal interphalangeal joint, or flexor tendon sheath. A neglected felon may eventually lead to extrusion or avascular necrosis of the distal phalanx.
Symptoms of felon
The patient is usually seen with pain and tense swelling a day or two after a penetrating injury to the fingertip. Felons are exquisitely tender to palpation because of the increased pressure within the septal compartments.
Treatment of felon
Treatment of felon involves surgical debridement. The pulp is widely opened through two lateral incisions or a single incision. If necrotic bone is present, it must be debrided. The wound is often left open to allow for drainage. Delayed primary closure is achieved once swelling and cellulitis subside and the wound appears clean.
Homeopathic treatment for felon
Homeopathy is one of the most popular holistic systems of medicine. The selection of remedy is based upon the theory of individualization and symptoms similarity by using holistic approach. This is the only way through which a state of complete health can be regained by removing all the sign and symptoms from which the patient is suffering. The aim of homeopathy is not only to treat felon but to address its underlying cause and individual susceptibility. As far as therapeutic medication is concerned, several remedies are available to treat felon that can be selected on the basis of cause, sensations and modalities of the complaints. For individualized remedy selection and treatment, the patient should consult a qualified homeopathic doctor in person. There are following remedies which are helpful in the treatment of felon:
Ledum Pal, Hypericum, Sepia, Fluoric Acid, Natrum Sulph, Pulsatilla, Arsenic, Natrum Mur, Lycopodium, Sulphur, Apis Mel, Tarantula C, Hepar Sulph, Silicea, Phosphorous, Petroleum , Phytolacca, Plumbum Met, Rhus Tox, Causticum, Graphites, Alumina, Mercurius, and many other medicines.
