An ingrown toenail is a common foot problem. It happens when
the edge of a toenail grows into the skin next to it. This often causes pain,
swelling, and sometimes infection. Most people get ingrown nails on the big
toe. It can happen to anyone, but teens, athletes, and people who wear tight
shoes are more at risk.
The good news is that most ingrown toenails can be treated
at home. If treated early, they usually heal fast. In some cases, you may need
help from a doctor. This article will explain the best ways to treat and prevent ingrown toenails.
What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?
There are a few main causes:
- Cutting toenails the wrong way. If you cut them too short
or round the edges, the nail can grow into the skin.
- Wearing tight shoes or socks. These press on the toes and
push the nail into the skin.
- Injuries. Stubbing your toe or dropping something on it
can cause the nail to grow oddly.
- Genetics. Some people are born with curved or thick nails.
- Poor foot care. Dirty feet and nails can increase the
chance of infection.
Knowing the cause can help you avoid the problem in the
future.
Early Signs to Watch For
At first, an ingrown toenail might just feel sore. You may
notice redness, swelling, or pain on one side of the nail. As it gets worse,
the area may feel warm or look puffy. In more serious cases, pus or drainage
can come out. If this happens, it means the toe is infected.
Home Treatments That Work
You can treat mild ingrown toenails at home. These steps
help reduce pain and swelling, and they can stop infection before it starts.
1. Soak Your Foot
Soaking helps soften the skin and nail. It also lowers
swelling and keeps the area clean. Use warm water. You can add Epsom salt to
help draw out fluid and reduce redness.
- Soak for 15 to 20 minutes.
- Do it 2 to 3 times a day.
- Dry the foot well afterward.
2. Lift the Nail Gently
After soaking, try to lift the nail edge. Use a clean piece
of cotton or dental floss. Slide it gently under the corner of the nail. This
helps guide the nail to grow above the skin. Change the cotton daily. This step
may hurt a little, but it helps the nail grow the right way.
Note: Do not force the nail if it is too painful or stuck
deep in the skin.
3. Apply Cream and Bandage
Use an over-the-counter antibiotic cream to help prevent
infection. Put a small amount on the sore spot after soaking. Cover it with a
clean bandage to protect it and keep it dry. Change the bandage every day or
when it gets wet.
4. Wear Roomy Shoes
Tight shoes make ingrown nails worse. While your toe heals,
wear open-toe sandals or soft slippers. Avoid high heels or narrow shoes. Your
toes need space to breathe and move.
When to See a Doctor
Home care works for many people, but not for everyone. If
your toe gets worse, see a doctor. Signs you need medical help include:
- The pain is very strong.
- You see pus or red streaks.
- The toe stays swollen after a few days.
- You cannot walk without limping.
- You have diabetes or poor circulation.
Doctors can treat the nail with a small in-office procedure.
They may numb the toe and remove part of the nail. This gives the skin time to
heal. If the problem keeps coming back, the doctor may treat the nail root so
it does not grow again.
What If the Toe Is Infected?
If the toe is infected, you may need antibiotics. These can
be pills or a stronger cream. Do not ignore signs of infection. In some people,
like those with diabetes, a small foot infection can turn into a serious health
problem. Always get medical care if you are not sure.
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails
The best way to deal with ingrown toenails is to prevent
them in the first place. Here are simple tips that can help:
- Cut toenails straight across. Do not round the corners.
- Do not cut nails too short. Leave a little white at the
edge.
- Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash your feet daily and dry
them well, especially between the toes.
- Wear shoes that fit. Make sure your shoes are not too
tight at the toe.
- Use clean tools. Always clean your nail clippers before
using them.
If your toenails are thick or hard to cut, soak your feet
first. This makes trimming easier and safer.
Who Needs to Be Extra Careful?
Some people should be extra careful with their feet:
- People with diabetes: even a small cut or sore can become
a big problem.
- Older adults: nails grow slower and may be harder to care
for.
- People with nerve damage: they may not feel pain, so they
may not notice a problem until it gets worse.
If you are in one of these groups, talk to your doctor or a
foot care nurse about regular foot checks.
Final Thoughts
Ingrown toenails are painful, but they are usually easy to
treat if you catch them early. Soaking your foot, lifting the nail gently, and
keeping the area clean can help the nail grow out normally. If the toe gets
worse or does not heal, do not wait. See a doctor. A quick visit can bring fast
relief and prevent bigger problems.
Taking care of your feet and trimming your nails the right
way can stop ingrown toenails from coming back. Your feet do a lot of work
every day. A little care goes a long way.
