In grown toenails
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. This condition most commonly affects the big toe, but it can happen to any toe.
Causes:
1.Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
2.Tight or Ill-fitting Shoes: Shoes that crowd the toes, especially narrow or pointed ones, can put pressure on the nails and force them into the skin.
3.Injury: Trauma to the toenail, such as stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on it, can cause the nail to grow abnormally.
4.Genetics: Some people are more prone to ingrown toenails due to the natural shape of their nails.
5.Poor Foot Hygiene: Failing to keep feet clean and dry can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails.
•Pain along one or both sides of the nail.
•Redness and swelling around the affected area.
•Tenderness when touching or pressing on the toe.
•Drainage of pus or fluid if the area becomes infected.
•Overgrowth of skin around the nail as the condition worsens.
1.At-home care (for mild cases):
•Soak the foot in warm water with Epsom salts several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.
•Gently lift the edge of the nail and place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under it to help it grow above the skin.
•Apply antibiotic cream if there are signs of infection and cover with a bandage.
•Wear open-toed shoes or shoes with a wide toe box to avoid pressure on the affected toe.
2.Medical Treatment:
•Nail Removal: A podiatrist may trim or remove part of the nail to relieve pressure and prevent further growth into the skin.
•Antibiotics: If an infection is present, oral or topical antibiotics may be prescribed.
•Surgical Options: In recurrent or severe cases, part of the nail or the nail bed may be surgically removed (partial or total nail avulsion). This can prevent the nail from growing back into the skin.
Prevention:
•Trim nails straight across, not rounded at the corners, and avoid cutting them too short.
•Wear shoes that fit well and provide enough space for the toes.
•Maintain good foot hygiene by keeping feet clean and dry.
•Avoid trauma to the toes, and protect your feet during activities that could cause injury.
If you frequently suffer from ingrown toenails, it’s important to see a podiatrist to discuss long-term treatment options.