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Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails are very common and they occur when the corner of the toenail continues growing into the fleshy part of the toe. This causes redness, pain, swelling, and in more serious cases, infection. If the ingrown toenail is infected, there may be white or yellowish discharge present, a lighter area of skin surrounding the redness, and intense pain in the area. Ingrown toenails most commonly occur on the big toe, but they can happen on any toe.

Causes

Ingrown toenails are usually caused by clipping the toenail improperly, leading to sharp edges that poke into the skin and continue to grow that way. Nails should be clipped straight across and not rounded. Never clip down the side of your toenail. Another cause of ingrown toenails is wearing shoes that are too small, since they squeeze the toes together and this causes improper toenail growth. Injury to the toe might also prompt the growth of an ingrown toenail, as do fungal infections that may thicken or widen the nail. If a family member develops frequent ingrown toenails, it is more likely that you will be prone to them as well.

Treatment and Prevention

If an ingrown toenail is not infected, you may attempt to treat it at home by soaking it up to four times a day in warm water. After soaking, attempt to squeeze a small piece of gauze or cotton in between the toenail and the skin, lifting the nail and elevating it. This will help eventually get the sharp part of nail out of your skin. Wash the foot with soap and water twice a day, and keep it dry and clean. Avoid tight shoes, and if you can, wear sandals or open-toed shoes until your ingrown toenail improves. You may take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as asprin or ibuprofen to relieve the pain if you wish.

However, if your ingrown toenail seems to be infected (white or yellowish discharge, lighter area of skin surrounding the redness, intense pain), or does not improve with home treatment after a few days, you should see a doctor or clinician as soon as possible.

If you are a diabetic with an ingrown toenail and you cannot get an appointment with your primary care physician or clinician, you need to go straight to the emergency room and get treatment as soon as possible. If your ingrown toenail is infected and you are diabetic, even more reason to not delay. Foot problems in diabetics are the leading cause of limb amputation among diabetics, so DO NOT DELAY! Foot infections in diabetics are extremely serious and should be dealt with immediately.