Ingrown Toenails

What are Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails, medically known as onychocryptosis, occur when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition most commonly affects the big toe but can occur on any toenail. Factors contributing to ingrown toenails include improper nail trimming, tight footwear, nail injury, and genetic predisposition.

What are Signs of Ingrown Toenails?

  • Pain and tenderness along the sides of the nail
  • Redness and swelling around the nail
  • Infection of the tissue around the nail, which may produce pus
  • Hardening of the skin near the nail
  • Overgrowth of skin around the nail

FAQs

Ingrown toenails can be caused by various factors, including improper nail trimming (cutting nails too short or rounding the edges), wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes, toe injuries, and genetic predisposition to nail curvature.

Treatment options range from home care to medical procedures. Home care includes soaking the foot in warm water, keeping the area clean, and using over-the-counter pain relievers. In severe cases, a podiatrist may need to lift the nail, partially or completely remove it, and prescribe antibiotics if an infection is present.

If left untreated, ingrown toenails can lead to severe infections, abscess formation, and, in rare cases, the infection can spread to the bone. Chronic ingrown toenails can also cause permanent nail damage and deformity.

You should see a podiatrist if you experience severe pain, signs of infection (such as pus or increased redness), if home treatments are ineffective, or if you have a condition that affects your circulation or immune system, such as diabetes.

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