Ingrown Toenail Information and Treatment Options
Ingrown Toenails Q & A
What are ingrown toenails?
Ingrown toenails occur when the corners of a toenail begin to curve and grow downward into the skin on the sides of your nail bed. The common result is an infected nail, or skin infection where the nail is digging in. Most people will experience at least one of these over the course of their life, but for some, the condition happens frequently.
Ingrown toenails can be painful, as the pressure of the nail growth irritates surrounding tissues. They can also range in severity from mildly uncomfortable to incredibly painful.
When left untreated, ingrown toenails can become infected and cause serious localized and systemic problems.
How do I know if I have an ingrown toenail?
Knowing the signs of an ingrown nail helps you learn when to take action. Your symptoms may vary depending on how advanced the problem becomes.
Some of the things to keep an eye out for include:
⦿ Redness or swelling in the skin next to a toenail
⦿ Pain when you place pressure on the affected toe
⦿ Fluid building up around the toe
⦿ New tissue growth along the sides of the toenail
⦿ Pus draining from the affected area, or unusual crust in
⦿ your socks or shoes
If you notice these changes in your toenail, call Denton Podiatry to book a diagnostic exam.
What causes ingrown toenails?
Some people often get ingrown nails with no apparent cause, leading researchers to believe a genetic factor is at play. Additional causal factors include:
⦿ Cutting toenails with angles at the sides
⦿ Nail Fungus
⦿ Improper foot hygiene
⦿ Shoes that place pressure on the big toes
⦿ Irregularly shaped toenails
⦿ Injuries like stubbed toes or dropping items on a toe
If you experience frequent nail issues, Dr. Barber will discuss your foot care routines and suggest ways to reduce your risk.
How are ingrown toenails treated?
If your discomfort is mild and there are no signs of infection, self-care may be all that’s needed to treat ingrown toenails. You can soak your feet in warm water a few times a day, gently push the skin back from the sides of your toenail, and use over-the-counter medications to soothe the pain.
If your ingrown toenail is painful or shows signs of infection, you may need a minor surgical procedure to find relief. Dr. Barber can remove all or part of your toenail to prevent ingrowth. The removal can be permenant or temporary.
Dr. Barber routinely performs ingrown nails procedures. Call the office to set up a visit or schedule an appointment online today.