Ingrowing toenail

Ingrowing Toenail

An ingrowing toenail, also known as onychocryptosis, is a common condition where the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh of the toe. This can lead to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes an infection. Ingrowing toenails most commonly affect the big toe.

Causes

The primary cause of an ingrowing toenail is improper trimming of the toenail, where the nail is cut too short or the edges are cut at an angle. Other contributing factors include:

• Wearing tight-fitting shoes or high heels that press the nail into the toe flesh
• Injury to the toenail, such as stubbing the toe
• Fungal infections of the nail
• Genetic predisposition to ingrowing toenails
• Poor foot hygiene

Symptoms

Symptoms of an ingrowing toenail include:

• Pain and tenderness along one or both sides of the nail
• Redness around the toenail
• Swelling of the toe around the nail
• Infection of the tissue around the toenail in more severe cases, indicated by pus and increased pain

Treatment

Treatment for an ingrowing toenail can be performed at home if the condition is mild and not infected. Home treatments include:

• Soaking the foot in warm, soapy water several times a day
• Placing a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the ingrown edge of the nail to help it grow above the skin edge
• Applying a topical antibiotic to prevent infection

If the ingrowing toenail is severe or becomes infected, medical treatment may be necessary. This can include:

• Partial removal of the nail
• Removal of the nail and tissue if the condition is chronic
• Use of oral antibiotics to treat infection

Prevention

Preventive measures for an ingrowing toenail include:

• Proper trimming of the toenails, cutting straight across and not too short
• Wearing shoes that fit well and do not press on the toes
• Maintaining good foot hygiene
• Checking the feet regularly for signs of ingrowing toenails, especially if you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor blood flow to the feet

Complications

If left untreated, an ingrowing toenail can lead to a serious infection of the bone that can spread beyond the foot. Individuals with diabetes or compromised immune systems are at a higher risk of complications from ingrowing toenails due to poor circulation and decreased sensation in the feet.