Ingrowns toenails: durability, treatment strategies, prevention methods, and prognosis
Ingrown toenails, a common foot ailment, can cause discomfort and potentially lead to infection if left untreated. The American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons and the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offer valuable advice on preventing and treating this condition.
Firstly, it's crucial to avoid cutting a notch in the nail, as it does not stop the nail from curving downwards into the skin. Similarly, placing cotton under the nail creates an environment for bacteria to grow and increases the chance of infection.
Learning how to cut an ingrown toenail safely is important to prevent further complications. Proper nail trimming involves cutting the nails straight across, avoiding any rounding of the corners. Toenails that are too long or cut incorrectly can lead to bulging tissue and inflammation.
Injuries such as stubbing the toe or dropping something on the foot can cause ingrown toenails. Additionally, excessive sweating can soften the nail bed, making it easier for the nail to penetrate the skin. Participating in sports like running or activities involving repeatedly kicking a ball can also damage the toenails and increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include redness around the toenail, tenderness or pain along the sides, swollen or hard skin around the nail, and a buildup of fluid around the toe. If the nail is cutting into the skin, bacteria can enter the toe, potentially causing an infection. Symptoms of a toe infection may include red, inflamed skin, tenderness, swelling, pus discharge, bleeding, and the skin of the nail fold growing over the nail.
For home treatment, the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommends soaking the toes in warm soapy water or a saline solution to reduce swelling and ease pain. After soaking, apply an antiseptic to the affected area to prevent infection. Cover the toe with a sterile bandage to protect it from further irritation and elevate your foot to reduce swelling. Wearing comfortable shoes that fit well and avoiding tight shoes can also help reduce pressure on the toe.
For recurrent ingrown nails or severe cases, surgical removal of the nail or part of it may be necessary. Doctors may prescribe antibiotics for an infected ingrown toenail and may perform a minor surgical procedure to remove part of the nail's side border under local anesthetic.
People with underlying medical conditions, such as diabetes, nerve damage in the feet, or poor circulation, should see a doctor as soon as they notice an ingrown toenail. Nail problems such as fungal infections or losing a nail due to trauma can also cause ingrown toenails.
It's essential to seek advice from a doctor if the symptoms are severe, as several types of tumors can mimic the presentation of an ingrown toenail. Older adults may be more likely to develop ingrown toenails due to impaired vision, reduced mobility, thicker nails, and difficulty in nail care.
To prevent ingrown toenails, people should properly trim their nails in a straight line, wear shoes and socks that fit well, avoid picking at the toenails or tearing them off, keep their feet clean, and use footwear that gives their toes lots of space.
[1] For more severe cases, surgical removal of the nail or part of it may be necessary. This procedure is usually performed under local anesthetic and can help alleviate the pain and prevent future ingrown toenails.
Always consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen. Home remedies such as using a cotton ball or waxed dental floss to gently lift the nail edge away from the skin can also help relieve pressure and allow the nail to grow out properly. However, it's important to remember that these remedies should supplement, not replace, professional medical advice.
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