What Are Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails are a common foot condition that occurs when the corner of a toenail grows into the toe instead of over it. This condition most often affects the big toes. While typically not serious, ingrown toenails can pose risks for people with medical conditions that impact circulation in the feet, potentially leading to infections.

CAUSES

Common causes of ingrown toenails include:

  • Poorly fitting shoes.
  • Tearing the corner of the toenail.
  • Trauma to a toe, such as stubbing it or dropping something heavy on it.
  • Cutting toenails too short or in a rounded shape.

Most people can manage ingrown toenails on their own at home. You just need to know what to look for to ensure that you do not actually have a different foot problem.

RISK FACTORS

Medical conditions like diabetes, poor blood circulation, or severe nerve damage increase the risk of complications from ingrown toenails.

SYMPTOMS

The first thing you are likely to notice with an ingrown toenail is that your nail bed feels hard and swollen. Bacteria can enter your skin if your toenail grows into the skin or skin grows over the edge of the nail. You could develop an infection that requires treatment from our dermatology practice if the bacteria travels through your toe before you notice a problem. The following are common indications that you have an infected toenail:

  • The toe feels warm to the touch and/or appears red.
  • New onset of pain
  • Swelling
  • Pus or liquid leaking from your toe

You will need prompt medical attention if you develop an infection or you have an ingrown toenail along with one of these conditions:

  • Diabetes
  • Poor blood circulation
  • Severe nerve damage

Treatment

Treating an ingrown toenail at home involves soaking your foot twice a day in warm water with Epsom salt to loosen the toenail and help it grow correctly. Keep your feet warm and dry when not soaking them. To relieve pain, gently lift the edge of the toenail and place dental floss or cotton between the toenail and skin. Apply antibiotic cream to the area and cover it with a clean gauze pad, changing it daily.

 

Wearing loose-fitting shoes or sandals can reduce pressure and prevent further pain as the toe heals. Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help alleviate discomfort. Avoid cutting the ingrown toenail yourself, as this could worsen the condition.

 

If symptoms persist, or if you suspect an infection, contact Anne Arundel Dermatology for professional treatment.

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