Likely a paronychia: Paronychia is a small pocket of infection at the cuticle area--as pictured here. Usually it is quite painful at first, but as the infection/swelling worsens, the tissues begin to die and pain actually can subside a bit. It is simple to treat with a little incision--using sterile blade/needle. Warm epson-salt soaks can often open up by itself. If worsens, consult doc. Good luck.
Answered 12/9/2013
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