Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown toenail is when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, resulting in pain, inflammation, and possibly infection.

Common Cause:

1. Improper trimming, cutting toenails too short or curved,
2. wearing tight shoes.
3. Injuries to the toe, like stubbing it or having something fall on it, can damage the nail bed and lead to an ingrown toenail.
4. Some people are predisposed to ingrown toenails.
5. Fungal infections or other nail problems can also contribute to ingrown toenails.

Symptoms:

1. Pain
2. Inflammation, redness, and swelling.
3. Infection, pus, warmth, foul odour.
4. Hypergranulation tissue of skin around the affected nail.

Treatment:

1. Home care (for mild cases):
2. Soak the foot in warm water with Epsom salts or soapy water several times a day.
3. Gently lift the ingrown nail edge with cotton or gauze.
4. Wear comfortable, roomy shoes or sandals.
5. Use pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

If the above remedies fail or the toe infection gets worse than a surgical procedure may be required.

It is performed, under local anaesthesia, a portion of the nail bed is removed.

A chemical is applied to the nail bed to prevent regrowth.

This can provide a possible permanent solution to the ingrown nail.