If you take good care of your feet and trim your toe nails regularly, the thought of a problem with your toe nails has probably never crossed your mind. If you have ever had an ingrown toe nail, though, you know the pain that such a small portion of your body can create. Most ingrown toe nails can be treated at home. If you have excessive inflammation, swelling, pain or infection, visit a podiatrist to take care of a bad ingrown toe nail.
Causes
Ingrown toe nails occur when a portion of your toe nail penetrates the surrounding skin. This creates a wound that can cause an infection or the formation of excess tissue around your toe nail. Ingrown toes nails can occur as the result of stubbing your toe, having your toe stepped on, wearing tight shoes, and as the result of improper toe nail grooming. In other cases, an ingrown toe nail can be congenital. If your toe nail is too large for your toe and nail plate, your nail can start to curve into your skin. Ingrown toe nails are most common in the big toe, but they can occur in any of your toes.
Symptoms
At first, an ingrown toe nail can be swollen, hard and tender. As the severity of the condition progresses, the skin surrounding the toe nail may become red and very sore. If the toe nail become infected, blood or pus may drain from the site of the infection. You may also notice a foul odor, have difficulty finding shoes that fit comfortably or have trouble walking.
Home Care
As soon as you recognize an ingrown toe nail, it is best to start home care. Home care can help prevent infection in your toe. You should soak your foot in warm water three to four times per day. The foot should remain dry for the remainder of the day. Try wearing comfortable shoes with plenty of space for your toes. If you cannot find comfortable shoes, wear sandals or opened-toed shoes until the ingrown toe nail is gone. If your ingrown toe nail is causing you pain, take an over-the-counter pain reliever.
Physician Care
If your symptoms worsen or you notice no improvement after two to three days, it is time to visit a doctor. If you have an infection, your doctor may place you on antibiotics. Your toe nail will likely be partially or entirely removed. A small surgical procedure is effective in removing the ingrown toe nail and preventing future ingrown toe nails. Your doctor will inject your toe with anesthetic and use scissors to cut away a portion or all of your nail. Your toenail will regrow in three to four months.
Prevention
Unfortunately, there is no way to change the shape of your nail plate. However, you can help reduce your risk of developing an ingrown toe nail with proper nail care. Always wear shoes and socks that have plenty of room for your toes. You should also keep your toe nails short and trimmed. Nails should be straight across with no sharp ends. Keeping your feet clean and dry will also help reduce your risks.
