Ingrown toenails

What are ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails occur when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to irritation, pain, redness, and swelling. This condition most commonly affects the big toe but can occur in any toenail.

How to know I have ingrown toenail? 

You might have an ingrown toenail if you notice the following signs and symptoms:

1. Pain or Discomfort: Experience pain or tenderness along the edge or corner of the toenail, especially when pressure is applied or when wearing shoes.
2. Redness and Swelling: Notice redness, swelling, or inflammation around the affected toenail, often accompanied by warmth or increased sensitivity.
3. Sensitivity to Touch: The area around the ingrown toenail may be sensitive to touch, causing discomfort when pressure is applied.
4. Visible Ingrowth: Observe the edge or corner of the toenail growing into the surrounding skin, potentially causing irritation or even a visible wound.
5. Pus or Drainage: In more severe cases, an ingrown toenail can become infected, leading to pus drainage, increased pain, and possibly a foul odor.

What causes ingrown toenails? 

Ingrown toenails can be caused by various factors, including:

1. Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding them excessively at the edges instead of trimming straight across can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
2. Ill-Fitting Footwear: Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow, especially in the toe box area, can exert pressure on the toes, leading to nail irritation and ingrowth.
3. Trauma or Injury: Stubbing the toe or repeated injury to the toenail can cause it to grow irregularly or lead to ingrown toenails.
4. Hereditary Factors: Inherited foot shapes or nail structures that predispose individuals to develop ingrown toenails. Some people have nails that naturally curve inward, making them more prone to ingrowth.
5. Improper Foot Hygiene: Inadequate foot hygiene, such as not keeping the feet clean or drying them thoroughly, can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails.
6. Abnormal Nail Growth: Certain medical conditions or factors like fungal nail infections, nail deformities, or excessive nail thickness can cause irregular nail growth patterns, increasing the likelihood of ingrown toenails.

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How ingrown toenail can be treated? 

Treatment for an ingrown toenail depends on the severity of the condition. Here are common approaches used in managing ingrown toenails:

1. Warm Soaks: Soaking the affected foot in warm, soapy water can help reduce swelling and soften the skin, making it easier to gently lift the edge of the ingrown nail.
2. Proper Nail Trimming: Trimming the toenail straight across and avoiding cutting it too short can prevent further ingrowth. A podiatrist can perform this trimming if necessary.
3. Cotton or Floss Insertion: Placing a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the edge of the ingrown nail can help lift it away from the skin and prevent it from growing further into the skin.
4. Topical Antibiotics: Applying topical antibiotics to the affected area can help prevent infection if there are signs of inflammation or infection.
5. Pain Relief Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.
6. Antibiotics: If an infection is present or suspected, oral antibiotics may be prescribed by a healthcare professional to treat the infection.
7. Surgical Intervention: In severe or recurrent cases, or when an infection persists, a podiatrist may perform a minor surgical procedure to remove the ingrown portion of the nail (partial nail avulsion) or, in some cases, remove the entire nail (total nail avulsion).

If you suspect you have an ingrown toenail or experience persistent pain, redness, swelling, or signs of infection around the toenail, it's advisable to seek guidance from a podiatrist or healthcare professional. They can provide appropriate care, recommend the most suitable treatment, and perform any necessary procedures to address the ingrown toenail effectively. Early intervention can help manage the condition, alleviate discomfort, and prevent potential complications.

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