Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the toenail grows into the skin next to the nail. It most commonly affects the big toe.
Causes and Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Wearing shoes that are too tight or too small
- Cutting toenails too short
- Trauma to the toe
- Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or peripheral neuropathy
Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:
- Pain and tenderness around the toenail
- Redness and swelling around the toenail
- Drainage or pus coming from the toenail
- Difficulty walking
When to See a Podiatrist for an Ingrown Toenail
If you have an ingrown toenail, it is important to see a podiatrist for treatment. If left untreated, an ingrown toenail can become infected and lead to serious health problems.
Treatment for Ingrown Toenails
There are a variety of treatment options for ingrown toenails, including:
- Conservative treatment, such as soaking the foot in warm water and applying antibiotic ointment
- Surgical treatment, such as removing part of the toenail or the entire nail
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
There are a number of things you can do to prevent ingrown toenails, including:
- Wearing shoes that fit well
- Cutting toenails straight across
- Avoiding cutting toenails too short
- Protecting toes from trauma
If you have any questions about ingrown toenails, please consult with a podiatrist.
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