Treating Ingrown Toenails: Do Oral Medications Work? - Dermatology

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Ingrown toenails, medically known as onychocryptosis, occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness, swelling, and sometimes infection. Your situation, where your left big toe has become painful, discolored, and has developed pus, indicates that you may have an infection associated with the ingrown toenail.
Oral medications, particularly antibiotics, can be effective in treating infections that arise from ingrown toenails. When a doctor prescribes oral antibiotics, they are typically targeting the bacterial infection that may have developed due to the ingrown nail. Commonly prescribed antibiotics for such infections include amoxicillin or cephalexin, which are effective against the bacteria that often cause skin infections. These medications work systemically to reduce the infection and inflammation, which can help alleviate pain and promote healing.

However, while oral medications can help manage the infection, they do not address the underlying issue of the ingrown toenail itself. If the nail continues to grow into the skin, the problem may persist even after the infection is treated. In many cases, if the ingrown toenail is severe or recurrent, surgical intervention may be necessary. This could involve a minor procedure where the doctor removes the portion of the nail that is ingrown, allowing the surrounding tissue to heal properly. In more severe cases, a partial or complete nail avulsion may be performed, where part or all of the nail is removed to prevent future occurrences.

In addition to oral medications, topical treatments such as the ointment you mentioned (康富軟膏) can also be beneficial. These topical treatments often contain antibiotics or anti-inflammatory agents that can help reduce local infection and inflammation. Applying such ointments can provide symptomatic relief and assist in the healing process.

It is essential to follow your doctor's advice regarding the use of both oral and topical medications. If you notice that your symptoms are not improving or worsening despite treatment, or if you experience increased pain, swelling, or fever, it is crucial to seek further medical attention. Your doctor may recommend a follow-up visit to assess the situation and determine if surgical intervention is necessary.

In summary, while oral medications can effectively treat the infection associated with your ingrown toenail, they do not resolve the underlying issue of the nail itself. If the ingrown toenail continues to cause problems, surgical intervention may be warranted to prevent recurrence and ensure proper healing. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment options based on your specific condition.