An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of your toenail grows down and pierces the flesh of the toe. Ingrown toenails are most likely to affect your big toes. Ingrown toenails can occur on just one, or both, sides of your toe.

Ingrown toenails are fairly common and can be affectively treated by your Podiatrist.

How do I know if I have an ingrown toenail I here you ask, well an early symptom of an ingrown toenail is hard, tender and sometimes swollen skin around the offending nail. In most cases you will also feel pain. An ingrown toenail can be very painful when walking and can make everyday activities less enjoyable.

If left untreated the ingrown nail may become infected. This is because bacteria can enter the area where the nail has grown into the skin. If an infection has developed you will notice that the toe becomes red, swollen, very painful and warm to the touch. The area where the nail is ingrown may also bleed and ooze pus which may have an unpleasant smell. Blisters can also develop around the nail which are filled with pus. It is very important not to pop these blisters as this can spread the infection. If the toe is very swollen elevating your foot will help until you can make an appointment with your Podiatrist. If you have any such symptoms you need to make an appointment with your Podiatrist as soon as possible as you may need a course of antibiotics.

Please be aware that if you do have an infection and do not seek treatment, the infection can spread to the rest of your toe.

If your toenail has not become infected there are several things which you can do at home to help ease the discomfort of an ingrown toenail. Firstly, try soaking your feet 4 times a day in warm water. This will soften the nail so that it reduces the pain. Secondly, try to keep the nail as clean as possible. If the skin has not broken apply a dressing to the affected area. This reduces the chance of infection. If an infection has developed these techniques are not suitable and you should seek treatment from a Podiatrist as soon as possible.

Prevention is the best measure against the symptoms of an ingrown toenail. Keep your feet clean and dry, washing your feet everyday. Cut your toenails straight across than curving the edges of the nail. You should always make sure that the nail edge extends past the flesh of your toe.

For further information on ingrown toenails, symptoms, prevention and treatment make an appointment with your Podiatrist today. There is no need to suffer in silence, there are many treatment options available.

By | 2018-01-22T14:51:47+00:00 September 26th, 2012|Blog|0 Comments