Ingrown Toenails

What are Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail, usually on the big toe, grows into the flesh of the toe. This can lead to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Ingrown toenails can be caused by improper toenail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, injury, or naturally curved toenails. While they are a common and often minor issue, if left untreated or in individuals with diabetes or circulatory problems, they can lead to serious complications.

What are signs & symptoms of Ingrown Toenails?

Common signs and symptoms of ingrown toenails include:

Pain and tenderness in the toe along one or both sides of the nail
Redness around the toenail
Swelling of the toe around the nail
Infection of the tissue around the toenail, which may be indicated by pus or redness extending beyond the immediate area of the nail

These symptoms can worsen over time if the ingrown toenail is not treated.

What are some treatments for Ingrown Toenails?

Treatment options for ingrown toenails vary depending on the severity:

Soaking the foot in warm water several times a day
Applying antibiotic cream to prevent infection
Wearing comfortable shoes with adequate room for the toes
Proper trimming toenails straight across without rounding the corners
Gently lifting the edge of the ingrown nail and placing cotton or a dental floss underneath to encourage the nail to grow above the edge of the skin
In more severe cases, partial or total removal of the ingrown portion of the nail by a healthcare professional

Prevention is often focused on proper toenail care and wearing suitable footwear. If the ingrown toenail is recurrent, severely painful, or shows signs of infection, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider or podiatrist for professional treatment.