Cut It Out! Facts About Ingrown Toenails

Q: What Is It?

An ingrown toenail occurs when a sharp corner of the toenail curls into the skin or side of the toe. First, pain and inflammation occurs, later, the inflamed area can sometimes form an infection.

Q: How Did I Get An Ingrown?

• Improper toenail trimming (too short, wrong shape)
• Tight fitting shoes or high heels
• A fungal infection can cause a thick or wide toenail to develop
• Repetitive damage from physical activity
• Family! If other family members get them, you can too because the nails may be shaped the same
• Bunions sometimes lead to ingrown nails

Q: How Can I Tell If I’m Getting An Ingrown?

• The end of the toe becomes red and painfulIt feels warm to the touch
• It feels warm to the touch
• Extra skin and tissue begin to grow around the sharp point of the nail
• A yellow or clear discharge begins
• An infection develops. (increase pain, swelling, warmth, foul odor)

Q: When Should I See My Doctor?

When the toenail is inflamed or painful

Signs of infection

No signs of improvement within 3 days

Q: Are There Home Remedies I Can Try?

Soak your foot in warm water with epsom salt for a few days

Wash the infected area twice a day with soap and water

Use a topical antibiotic (i.e bacitracin or neosporin)

Avoid tight fitting shoes and high heels

Gently lift the nail away from the skin by placing cotton between the nail and skin

Take pain relievers (anti-inflammatory)