What To Do if Your Ingrown Toenail Is Causing You Pain
Ingrown toenails are a common and uncomfortable foot condition affecting many individuals. They occur when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, which can cause pain and lead to further complications. Here is more information on the causes, symptoms, and management options for ingrown toenails:
What Are Ingrown Toenails?
Ingrown toenails are a condition where the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh of the toe. This penetration of the nail into the skin may result in pain, redness, swelling, and infection. The big toe is most frequently affected by this condition, but any toe can develop an ingrown nail.
The condition ranges from a minor annoyance to a severe problem that requires medical intervention. If the area becomes infected, the symptoms may worsen, and the pain may become more pronounced. Timely and appropriate care helps prevent the condition from escalating, thereby reducing the risk of complications.
What Causes Them?
Several factors contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. One of the most common causes is improper nail trimming, such as cutting the nails too short or rounding the edges instead of cutting them straight across. This encourages the nail to grow into the skin.
Wearing footwear that is too tight or narrow can cause ingrown toenails, as shoes that crowd the toes put pressure on the nails. Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing it, can also lead to the condition. Repetitive activities that put pressure on the toes, like running, are additional contributing factors.
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of an ingrown toenail typically develop in stages. Early signs include pain when pressure is applied to the toe, along with tenderness, swelling, and redness around the nail. The skin next to the nail may feel firm or hardened. As the condition progresses, the symptoms can become more severe, and you may notice extra skin and tissue growth around the toenail.
How Can You Relieve Pain?
You can manage the discomfort of a mild ingrown toenail with some simple home treatments. Soaking the affected foot in warm, soapy water several times a day helps reduce swelling and relieve tenderness, and it softens the skin. After soaking, gently lifting the edge of the ingrown nail and placing a small piece of cotton or dental floss beneath can guide the nail to grow above the skin edge.
Applying an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment helps prevent infection, and it is beneficial to keep the foot dry after soaking. Wearing comfortable shoes or sandals that do not put pressure on the toes allows the area to heal. Over-the-counter pain relievers may also be used to manage discomfort.
How Is Professional Guidance Beneficial?
If home remedies do not improve the condition or if signs of infection are present, seeking professional guidance from a podiatrist is recommended. A podiatrist can properly diagnose the severity of the ingrown toenail and provide appropriate treatment. A podiatrist can perform minor surgical procedures in an office setting and offer a more permanent solution for chronic cases.
Consult a Podiatrist Today
Ingrown toenails are a painful condition, but understanding their causes and symptoms allows for effective management. While home care may be sufficient for mild cases, professional medical attention is appropriate for severe or infected ingrown toenails. Contact a local podiatrist to schedule a consultation and discuss the most appropriate course of treatment for your condition.
