Ingrown toenails

Ingrown toenails occur when the corner or side of a toenail grows into the skin. They cause pain, especially when pressure is applied to the affected area. While the condition can develop on any toe, the big toe is most likely to be affected.

A red, swollen bump forms around the area where the nail enters the skin. Infection is also possible, which is something to be careful about. Blood or pus may then appear on the side of the nail.

Some people may experience more serious complications from an ingrown toenail. People with diabetes or any other condition affecting blood circulation in the feet may even develop an ulcer on their foot. These individuals should have their feet examined at least once a year. A specialist will be able to identify and prevent risk factors.

Causes and triggers

There are several possible causes of ingrown toenails. Here are a few examples:

• The shape of the nail as it grows, for example, if it's too wide, too thick, or too curved
• Wearing ill-fitting shoes
• Cutting nails too short or not straight across
• Poor nail and foot care habits
• Excessive sweating, which softens the skin around the nails
• An injury or deformity of the foot (e.g., a bunion)

An ingrown toenail can also develop as a result of repeated blows to the foot, for example while doing an activity that causes poor foot alignment or that involves kicking, such as playing soccer. People whose parents have a history of ingrown toenails are also at greater risk of developing them.

Treatment

Here are some things you can do to prevent ingrown toenails:

• Avoid wearing shoes that:
  • Are too tight or too narrow
  • Have high heels
• Cut nails straight across without rounding off the corners
• Don't cut your toenails too short: they should extend beyond the skin
• Use your thumbs to stretch the folds of skin around the nail that are prone to regular ingrowth
• Keep your feet clean and dry
• Regularly check your feet and toenails, especially if you're susceptible to complications (e.g., if you are diabetic)
• Use protective gear for activities where there is a risk of injury (foam pads or steel caps)

You can treat an ingrown toenail yourself at home as long as it's mild and you aren't at risk of complications. Otherwise, you should consult a health care professional. Here are a few things you can do to manage your pain:

1. Treat the affected area daily:
   • Soak your foot in a lukewarm Epsom salt bath for 10 to 20 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day.
   • Wedge a piece of cotton (dry or soaked in water or disinfectant) between the nail and the skin to relieve pressure.
   • Change the cotton at least once a day.
2. Avoid touching the affected nail and toe to avoid infection.
3. Wait for the nail to grow out of the skin.
4. Cut the nail straight across,making sure it's not too short.
5. Wear sandals or put a specially designed toe cap on the affected toe to reduce pain.

In more serious cases, surgery may be required. It can take up to a few months for the nail to completely return to normal.

When should I see a health care professional?

Consult your health care provider in the following cases:

• You have tried to treat the ingrown toenail without success or its condition worsens
• Your toe shows signs of infection: swelling, pain, pus
• You have a fever or chills
• You are diabetic or have any other condition affecting blood circulation in the legs, and you have an ingrown toenail