An ingrown toenail is a common condition that occurs when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This can cause pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection.
Ingrown toenails can be caused by a number of factors, including:
Cutting your toenails too short: When you cut your toenails too short, the corners or sides can curl under and grow into the skin.
Wearing tight shoes: Tight shoes can put pressure on the toenails and make them more likely to grow ingrown.
Genetics: Some people are more likely to develop ingrown toenails than others.
Treatment for Ingrown Toenails
There are a number of ways to treat ingrown toenails. The best treatment for you will depend on the severity of your condition.
Home treatment: In mild cases, you may be able to treat an ingrown toenail at home with the following:
Soaking your feet in warm water: Soaking your feet in warm water for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help to reduce pain and swelling.
Applying a warm compress: Applying a warm compress to the affected area can also help to reduce pain and swelling.
Using an antibiotic ointment: Applying an antibiotic ointment to the affected area can help to prevent infection.
Wearing loose-fitting shoes: Wearing loose-fitting shoes can help to reduce pressure on the toenail and make it easier for the nail to grow out.
Medical treatment: If your ingrown toenail is severe, you may need to see a doctor for treatment. Your doctor may:
Remove the corner or side of the toenail: Your doctor can use a scalpel or laser to remove the corner or side of the toenail. This will allow the nail to grow out straight.
Administer antibiotics: If your ingrown toenail is infected, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics to treat the infection.
Advise you on how to prevent ingrown toenails in the future: Your doctor can advise you on how to cut your toenails properly and how to choose shoes that fit well.
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
There are a number of things you can do to prevent ingrown toenails, including:
Cut your toenails straight across: When you cut your toenails, cut them straight across. Avoid cutting them too short or rounding the edges.
File the edges of your toenails: After you cut your toenails, file the edges smooth. This will help to prevent the edges from curling under and growing into the skin.
Wear loose-fitting shoes: Wearing loose-fitting shoes can help to reduce pressure on the toenail and make it less likely to grow ingrown.
See a doctor if you have a recurring problem: If you have recurring ingrown toenails, see a doctor. They can help you to find the best way to treat and prevent your ingrown toenails.
