An ingrown toenail is a common condition that can affect people of all ages. This condition occurs when a portion of the toenail pierces the surrounding skin. While it may develop on any toe, it most frequently affects the great toe. Understanding the nature of this condition, its signs, and the available treatment options can help individuals manage the discomfort and seek appropriate care.
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail develops when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the soft flesh of the toe. The nail acts as a foreign body, piercing the skin and leading to a reaction from the body. This penetration can cause pain, swelling, and redness in the affected area. If left unaddressed, the condition may sometimes lead to infection.
Several factors can contribute to the development of an ingrown toenail. Improper nail trimming is a frequent cause. Rounding the edges encourages the nail to grow downward into the skin as it regrows. External pressure on the toes can also lead to this condition. Footwear that is too tight, narrow, or short may crowd the toes, forcing the nail to press into the surrounding tissue. A direct injury to the toe, like stubbing it, can cause the nail to grow abnormally.
How Is One Detected?
The symptoms of an ingrown toenail often begin subtly and may progress over time. Early signs typically include pain and tenderness along one or both sides of the nail. The skin next to the nail may become red, swollen, and firm to the touch. If an infection develops, the symptoms can become more pronounced. The redness may spread, and the swelling may increase. Pus might drain from the site, and the pain may become more severe.
A diagnosis is usually made through a physical examination of the toe. A podiatrist or other healthcare provider will inspect the nail and the surrounding skin to assess the extent of the condition. The provider will look for the characteristic signs of redness, swelling, and a nail edge that is embedded in the skin. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, are not necessary unless the provider suspects a more serious underlying issue, such as a bone infection.
How Is It Treated?
The treatment for an ingrown toenail depends on its severity. For mild cases without signs of infection, simple at-home care may be suggested to alleviate discomfort. This can include soaking the foot in warm water multiple times a day to soften the skin. Wearing comfortable shoes with a wide toe box can reduce pressure on the affected toe.
When the condition does not improve or shows signs of infection, professional medical care is recommended. A podiatrist can offer several treatment options. For a simple ingrown nail, the provider might lift the nail edge and place a splint underneath it. This action separates the nail from the skin, allowing it to grow above the skin edge.
For more severe or recurring cases, a partial nail avulsion may be performed. In this minor surgical procedure, the provider removes the ingrown portion of the nail. The procedure is designed to create a straight nail edge that is less likely to grow back into the skin.
Confer With a Podiatrist
Seeking professional guidance from a podiatrist is a sound step for managing an ingrown toenail. This is particularly the case if there is significant pain, signs of infection, or if the condition recurs. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or poor circulation, should seek prompt medical attention at the first sign of an ingrown toenail to avoid complications.
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