Ingrown toenails, also known as onychogryphosis, is usually caused by trimming toenails too short, particularly on the sides of the big toes. They may also be caused by shoe pressure (from shoes that are too tight or short), injury, fungus infection, heredity, or poor foot structure. Ingrown toenails occur when the corners or sides of the toenail dig into the skin, often causing infection. A common ailment, ingrown toenails can be painful. Ingrown toenails start out hard, swollen, and tender. Left untreated, they may become sore, red, and infected and the skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail.
In most cases, treating ingrown toenails is simple: soak the foot in warm, soapy water several times each day. Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks. Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. Note: Please consult your physician before taking any medications. In severe cases, if an acute infection occurs, surgical removal of part of the ingrown toenail may be needed. Known as partial nail plate avulsion, the procedure involves injecting the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.
Diagnosis and Treatment
During your visit to a podiatrist, they will assess the severity of your ingrown toenail and recommend appropriate treatment. This may involve:
- Nail Trimming: The podiatrist will carefully trim the ingrown portion of the nail to relieve pressure on the surrounding tissue.
- Medication: Depending on the presence of infection, your podiatrist may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics to treat the infection.
- Surgical Intervention: In severe cases or for chronic ingrown toenails, your podiatrist may recommend a procedure to remove a portion of the nail or the nail bed to prevent recurrence.
Prevention of Ingrown Toenails
Taking proactive steps to prevent ingrown toenails can help avoid future discomfort:
- Proper Nail Trimming: Cut your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short. Use toenail clippers and avoid rounding off the corners excessively.
- Footwear: Choose shoes with a wide toe box to prevent crowding of the toes. Avoid shoes with narrow or pointy toe boxes that can squeeze the toes together.
- Gentle Care: Handle your feet with care and avoid ripping or tearing the edges of your toenails.
By following these preventive measures and seeking timely treatment from a podiatrist, you can effectively manage and alleviate the symptoms of ingrown toenails.