An ingrown toenail digs into the skin next to the side of the nail. The most common site is on the big toe. Other toes and even fingernails can be affected. It can cause discomfort, pain, tenderness, and redness. Sometimes it gets infected.
Symptoms
Redness
Tenderness
Discomfort or pain
Causes
Jamming your toes by making
sudden stops, especially while playing sports like tennis
Wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks
Clipping toenails too far back, so that the
corners penetrate the skin as they grow out
Having wider-than-average toenails
Treatment
Self-Care usually treats ingrown toenails. If this fails to work, a
physician or podiatrist may have to surgically remove the troublesome portion of the nail.
Prevention
Cut nails straight across.
Don't cut the nails shorter at the sides than in the middle.
File the corners of the nail if they're
sharp after clipping them.
Wear shoes and socks that fit well.
Questions To Ask
Does the skin next to the side of your toenail shown any signs of
infection, such as pain, redness, tenderness, and/or pus? |
 |
| With an ingrown toenail do you have diabetes mellitus or
circulation problems? |
 |
| Do you get ingrown toenails often? |
|
Soak your foot in
warm, soapy water for 5 to 10 minutes, 1 to 3 times a day. Gently lift the nail away from the reddened
skin at the outer corners with the tip of a nail file. Soak a small piece of cotton in an
antiseptic, such as Betadine. Place it just under the outer corners, if you can. Repeat the previous 3 steps daily until the
nail begins to grow correctly and pressure is relieved. Wear roomy shoes during this time.HEALTH AT HOME - Your Complete Guide to Symptoms, Solutions, and Self-Care © 2000 by Don R. Powell. American Institute for Preventive Medicine.
Date updated 02/28/01