Ingrown Toenail Treatment

An ingrown toenail is a common condition that involves the corner of the toenail growing into the skin of the toe, causing pain, swelling, and infection. This can occur as a result of wearing shoes that are too small or tight, cutting the toenails too short, injury to the toenail, or a naturally curved toenail. While this condition can affect any toe, it most commonly affects the big toe. An ingrown toenail is likely to develop an infection and may even require surgery to remove the nail, so it’s best to get ingrown toenail treatment immediately.

Ingrown nails may cause pain at the tip of the toe or all the way to its base, which is often worse while walking. An ingrown nail may also lead to infection, inflammation, or a more serious condition. If it’s infected, you might see pus or redness.

Most ingrown toenails can be treated at home by soaking the foot in warm water, applying antibiotic cream to the area, and wrapping the toe in gauze or bandages. It is important to keep the area clean to help prevent infection. Your doctor may also place a piece of cotton under the nail to separate it from the skin that it is growing into, encouraging growth above the edge of the skin.

For more severe or recurrent cases, ingrown toenail treatment may involve the removal of part of the nail and the underlying tissue to remove the infection. Removal can be done through a chemical, laser, or other methods.

Patients can prevent ingrown toenails by protecting the foot from trauma, wearing comfortable, well-fitting shoes, and trimming their nails properly. To help avoid infection, keep your feet clean and dry.

• The Right Shoes: Get your feet measured (your size may change as you age) and wear shoes that are supportive and roomy enough for your toes to wiggle. Also, look for shoes made of natural materials such as leather, which allow your feet to breathe.
• Proper Trimming: To avoid problems, trim your toenails straight across without cutting down into the corners. If you can’t trim your own nails, ask your podiatrist to do so for you.

Patients with diabetes may be at a higher risk of serious complications, like an ingrown toenail infection. So, it’s crucial to take special precautions to prevent them from occurring.