Ingrown Toenails Treatment

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

• Trimming the toenails too short or rounding the corners instead of cutting them straight across can cause the nail to grow into the skin.
• Wearing shoes that put pressure on the toes can push the nail into the skin.
• Stubbing the toe or dropping something heavy on it can result in an ingrown toenail.
• Some people may be more prone to developing ingrown toenails due to inherited factors.
• Certain conditions like curved nails or thickened nails can increase the likelihood of ingrown toenails.

Symptoms of Ingrown Toenail

• Pain and tenderness along the edge of the affected toenail.
• Redness, swelling, and inflammation in the surrounding skin.
• Increased sensitivity or discomfort when pressure is applied to the affected area.
• Formation of pus or drainage if an infection develops.

Treatment of Toenail

• Soaking the affected foot in warm water several times a day can help relieve pain, reduce swelling, and soften the skin.
• Cutting the toenails straight across and avoiding rounded edges can prevent further ingrown toenail development.
• Wearing comfortable, properly fitting shoes with ample space in the toe box can help alleviate pressure on the toes.
• In severe or recurrent cases, an experienced podiatrist may need to perform a minor surgical procedure to remove part or all of the ingrown toenail. This is typically done under local anesthesia and provides long-term relief.
• If an infection develops, oral antibiotics may be prescribed to treat the underlying infection.

It is important to seek medical attention for severe pain, persistent symptoms, or signs of infection associated with an ingrown toenail. At Clemenceau Medical Center Hospital we can provide a proper diagnosis, recommend suitable treatment options, and offer advice on preventing future ingrown toenails.