If you have never had an Ingrown toenail, then consider yourself lucky! They impact heavily on people’s lives and can be debilitating. They are incredibly common and affect all ages.
There are different reasons as to why we get ingrown toenails. This could be due to nail damage/trauma, footwear, incorrect nail cutting and even genetics have a part to play. We wanted to share everything you need to know about ingrown toenails, including their causes, symptoms, treatment options, and when to seek professional advice.
How do you know if you have an ingrown toenail?
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. There are several reasons why ingrown toenails develop:
1. Improper Nail Cutting: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
2. Tight Footwear: Shoes that are too tight or narrow can compress the toes, forcing the nails to grow abnormally.
3. Injury: Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing it or dropping something heavy on it, can cause the nail to grow incorrectly. Even repetitive movement such as running and sports can affect the health of the nail.
4. Genetics: Some people are naturally more prone to ingrown toenails due to the shape and thickness of their nails.
5. Poor Foot Hygiene: Not keeping your feet clean and dry can increase the risk of developing ingrown toenails.
Signs and Symptoms
Identifying an ingrown toenail early can prevent it from becoming more severe. Here are the common signs and symptoms to look out for:
• Pain and Tenderness: Pain along one or both sides of the nail can be an early sign of an ingrown toenail.
• Redness and Swelling: The skin around the affected nail may become red and swollen.
• Infection: If the area is infected, you might notice pus, increased redness, and the skin can feel hot to touch around the area.
• Bleeding: In more severe cases, the ingrown nail may cause bleeding.
• Difficulty Walking: Severe pain can make walking or wearing shoes difficult.
Treatment Options
Treating an ingrown toenail can vary depending on its severity. Basic care at-Home Care:
o Soaking: Soak the affected foot in warm water with Epsom salts for 15-20 minutes, several times a day to reduce swelling and relieve pain.
o Proper Nail Cutting: Carefully trim the toenail straight across and avoid cutting the nails too short.
o Antibiotic Ointment: Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to prevent infection.
o Comfortable Footwear: Wear shoes with plenty of room for your toes to prevent further irritation.
2. Professional Treatment:
o Alleviate Pain and Pressure: A podiatrist can assess the concerned nails(s) and provide treatment where safe and right to do so. Further treatment may be recommended depending on the severity of the ingrown nail, pain experienced such as nail surgery.
o Partial Nail Removal: In more severe cases, a portion of the nail may need to be surgically removed with the use of anaesthetic to allow the area to heal properly.
o Total Nail Removal: For recurrent ingrown toenails, the entire nail may need to be surgically removed, sometimes along with the nail bed to prevent regrowth.
When to Seek Professional Advice
While mild ingrown toenails can often be managed at home, certain situations warrant professional help:
• Severe Pain: If the pain is severe and doesn’t improve with at-home treatments.
• Signs of Infection: Increased redness, swelling, pus, or a warm sensation around the nail.
• Recurrent Issues: If you frequently experience ingrown toenails, it’s best to consult a podiatrist for a long-term solution.
• Underlying Health Conditions: Individuals with diabetes, poor circulation, or other health conditions should seek prompt medical attention as they are at higher risk for complications.
What Happens if an Ingrown Toenail is Left Untreated?
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can lead to several complications, some of which can be serious:
1. Infection: An untreated ingrown toenail can lead to a bacterial infection, causing increased pain and swelling. In severe cases, the infection can spread to the underlying bone.
2. Abscess Formation: Pus may accumulate under the skin, forming an abscess that requires drainage.
3. Chronic Discomfort: Persistent pain and discomfort can affect your daily activities, making walking or standing difficult. Even sleep can be affected the ingrown toenail is that painful, bed sheets can often be too heavy to tolerate!
4. Nail Deformity: Chronic ingrown toenails can lead to permanent changes in the shape and growth of the nail.
5. Systemic Infection: In individuals with compromised immune systems or diabetes, an untreated infection can spread and become life-threatening.
Ingrown toenails, while common, are serious and should not be taken lightly. Proper foot care, including correct nail trimming and wearing appropriate footwear, can help prevent this painful condition. If you do develop an ingrown toenail, addressing it promptly with at-home care or seeking professional treatment can prevent complications and ensure a speedy recovery.
If you’re struggling with ingrown toenails or any other foot-related issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a podiatrist for expert advice and treatment.
