Nail Problems - Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can result from improper trimming, injury or sock or shoe irritation.
While they are common, ingrown toenails can be painful. When trimming your nails, avoid tapering the corners so that the nail curves with the shape of your toe. The sides of the nail will curl down and dig into your skin. Foot swelling, poor circulation, diabetes and bone or joint deformity can cause ingrown toenails.
Ingrown toenails initially become swollen and tender and later may become sore, red and infected with fluid drainage or pus. Your skin may start to grow over the ingrown toenail.
Antibiotics are sometimes prescribed if an infection is present. Part of your ingrown toenail (partial nail plate avulsion) may need to be surgically performed if an acute infection occurs. The procedure involves injecting the toe with an anesthetic and cutting out the ingrown part of the toenail.
Prompt treatment of an infection is required to prevent possible blood poisoning.
A permanent surgical procedure may be required to remove the ingrown toenail border for recurrent pain or infection.
