Ingrown toenail treatment at Premier Foot Clinic in Clinton, MS

Signs of an Ingrown Toenail

Signs that may indicate the formation of an ingrown toenail include redness, pain, swelling of the surrounding skin, possible bleeding or oozing of pus, and an overgrowth of the skin around the nail. The surrounding skin may also feel tender and become swollen or hardened. Most ingrown toenails are diagnosed by a simple physical exam; however, an x-ray may be required to show how deep the nail has grown into the skin of the toe.

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Many factors influence the likelihood of developing an ingrown toenail. The most common way ingrown toenails are formed is due to an incorrect method in how the toenails are trimmed. If you cut your toenails too short or cut them at an angle, you’re putting yourself at risk of getting this condition. Another main factor that contributes to ingrown toenails is the choice of footwear. Those who commonly wear tightly fitted shoes, such as high heels, that do not give the toes enough room, put too much pressure on the big toes. This can create an ingrown toenail.

How Ingrown Toenails Are Treated

To alleviate the pain, a small piece of cotton may be fitted underneath the nail. However, in more serious cases, total removal of the nail may be necessary.

When to See a Podiatrist for an Ingrown Toenail

For a proper diagnosis and advised treatment plan, we recommend you seek the care of a podiatrist as soon as you notice the warning signs of an ingrown toenail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an ingrown toenail?

An ingrown toenail is a common condition where the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most often on the big toe. It can cause pain, redness, and swelling along the side of the nail, and it may become infected if bacteria get into the broken skin. Ingrown toenails often develop from cutting nails too short, rounding the corners, or wearing tight shoes that press on the toes.

How can I tell if an ingrown toenail is infected?

An infected ingrown toenail usually shows increasing redness, warmth, swelling, pus draining from the area, and pain that keeps getting worse. If the toe becomes very tender or does not improve after a few days of home care, medical treatment may be needed to stop the infection from spreading. People with diabetes or poor circulation should have any signs of infection checked right away.

How are ingrown toenails treated?

Ingrown toenail treatment depends on how severe it is. Mild cases may be managed by soaking the foot, relieving pressure on the toe, and trimming the nail correctly. If the ingrown toenail is persistent or infected, a podiatrist can perform a quick, minor in-office procedure to remove the problem portion of the nail and relieve the pain. For nails that keep coming back, your podiatrist may also discuss options to help prevent that edge of the nail from growing in again.

Can ingrown toenails heal without treatment?

Mild ingrown toenails can sometimes improve on their own with good foot care, such as soaking the foot in warm water and wearing roomy shoes that keep pressure off the toe. However, if the pain continues or you notice signs of infection like redness, swelling, or pus, it is best to get professional treatment to avoid complications.

Is it safe to cut an ingrown toenail at home?

Cutting an ingrown toenail at home is not recommended, because it can make the problem worse or lead to infection, especially when the nail is deeply embedded in the skin. Digging into the corner of the nail often leaves a sharp edge that grows back in. Having a podiatrist treat it ensures the nail is removed safely and lowers the chance of it coming back.

When should I see a podiatrist for an ingrown toenail?

You should see a podiatrist for an ingrown toenail if it is very painful, shows signs of infection, or keeps coming back. If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or a nerve condition that affects your feet, seek care early, even for a mild ingrown toenail, to avoid serious complications.

Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Clinton, MS