An ingrown toenail causes pain and discomfort and may appear red and swollen. Improper cutting of the nail and wearing tight-fitting shoes often cause the edges of the nail to grow into the surrounding skin resulting in an ingrown toenail. The natural shape of the nail is also a factor, as some nails are naturally rounded at the edges making it difficult to cut nails straight across. According to the Mayo Clinic, ingrown toenails can be treated at home, unless there are signs of infection.

Pain and Swelling

Redness and swelling accompanied with pain and tenderness are often the first signs of an ingrown toenail. Home treatments may alleviate pain and reduce swelling without medical intervention. Soak feet in warm soapy water for 15 minutes three times a day to soften skin and ease pain. Roll gauze and place it under the edge of the nail to hold the nail away from skin long enough for it to grow past the end of the toe.

Weeping or Seeping Pus

Increased pain swelling and redness are the first signs of infection. If soaking the feet does not bring relief, or weeping or seeping pus around the nail occurs, infection is present and should be treated by a medical professional. Do not avoid seeking medical care, as it may result in serious infection that may affect the underlying bones. Those with diabetes or other conditions that cause decreased circulation in the feet are at risk of serious complications.

Medical Intervention

A doctor may remove the offending section of the toenail or prescribe antibiotics. Often, a small spike of toenail is embedded in the skin and once it is removed and the antibiotics are prescribed, the toenail heals. More serious infections may require removal of all or part of the toenail to promote healing and prevent re-occurrence.

Source:

Mayo Clinic: Ingrown Toenails

University of Maryland Medical Center: Ingrown Toenail

ePodiatry.com: Ingrown Toenail

More Information:

Columbia University Student Health: Ingrown Toenails

University of Illinois McKinley Health Center: Ingrown Toenails

Virginia Tech Schiffert Health Center: Ingrown Toenails