Painful irritation of the nail edge. Possible infection. A minor issue turned complicated for patients who have health issues such as diabetes. All these phrases sum up the nuances of an ingrown toenail. Many times the initial slight pain, discomfort, and irritation that patients experience with ingrown nail growth can eventually lead to signs of infection (redness, swelling, drainage of pus), if not treated. Why do some people experience ingrown nails while others escape the issues of the pesky problem? Some people just have the family history there - perhaps they have a mother or father who always seemed to get ingrown nails. Other causes stem from improperly cutting the nails - either too short or by overzealously cutting into the side of the nail. Additionally, wear the wrong size shoes can contribute to the problem as well.
There are a couple of ways to treat an ingrown nail. A patient may opt to simply have the nail removed by an incision and drainage procedure. In this method, the doctor will numb the toe and then will remove the nail margin. The patient may also opt to have the nail root in the area destroyed so that part of the nail won't grow back. This is done through use of a chemical. Once these nail procedures are done, the doctor may prescribe an antibiotic if the nail was initially infected or may advise soaking the foot in warm water for a few days following. There should be little to no limitations on daily activities and exercise following the nail procedures.
With ingrown nails, prevention and awareness are two key points. As previously stated, it is essential to wear properly fitted shoes and when trimming nails, be sure to cut straight across and not too short. If the onset of an ingrown nail is felt, it is important to schedule an appointment with a local podiatrist. "Self-procedures" when an ingrown nail has already fully developed might only cause further issues and possible infection.
