Should My Grandma See a Doctor for Her Swollen Toenail Injury?

The toenail has lifted up?

My grandmother fell a few days ago and part of her toenail was lifted.
She went to the hospital at that time, and the doctor noted that the wound appeared somewhat red and swollen.
She was prescribed antibiotics and took them for three days.
During her follow-up appointment on Tuesday, the doctor said she could stop taking the antibiotics and just continue applying antibiotic ointment to the wound daily.
However, my grandmother's toe seems to be a bit swollen.
Should we take her back to see the doctor?

Nick, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/07/04

Dr. Chen Bingze reply Surgery

Hello, if you notice any changes in the wound, it is advisable to return and have a doctor take a look.

Reply Date: 2024/07/04

More Info

It sounds like your grandmother is experiencing some complications from her toenail injury. Given her age and the fact that she has already been prescribed antibiotics, it is important to monitor her condition closely. Here are some considerations regarding her situation:
1. Infection Risk: The redness and swelling around the toenail could indicate an infection, especially since she has already been on antibiotics. While the doctor may have deemed it unnecessary to continue the antibiotics, the persistence of swelling suggests that there may still be an underlying issue. Infections can sometimes worsen or develop resistance to antibiotics, especially if they are not fully effective against the specific bacteria involved.

2. Signs of Complications: You should look for additional signs that may indicate a worsening condition. These include increased redness, warmth around the area, pus or discharge, fever, or increased pain. If any of these symptoms are present, it would be prudent to return to the doctor for further evaluation.

3. Wound Care: Continuing to apply the antibiotic ointment as directed is important. Ensure that the wound is kept clean and dry, and avoid any activities that might aggravate the injury. If the dressing becomes wet or soiled, it should be changed promptly to prevent further infection.

4. Follow-Up Appointment: Since your grandmother is elderly, her healing process may be slower than that of a younger person. If the swelling does not improve within a few days or if it worsens, it would be advisable to schedule a follow-up appointment with her doctor. The doctor may want to reassess the injury, possibly perform imaging studies to rule out any underlying bone injury, or consider a different course of treatment.

5. Potential for Surgical Intervention: In some cases, if the toenail is severely damaged or if there is significant infection, surgical intervention may be necessary. This could involve draining any accumulated pus or, in more severe cases, removing the toenail.
6. General Health Considerations: Given your grandmother's age, her overall health and any underlying conditions (such as diabetes or vascular issues) should also be taken into account. These conditions can affect healing and increase the risk of complications. If she has any chronic health issues, it would be wise to discuss these with her healthcare provider.

In summary, if your grandmother's toe remains swollen and red, it is advisable to consult her doctor again. Early intervention can prevent complications and ensure proper healing. Always err on the side of caution, especially with elderly patients, as their bodies may respond differently to injuries and infections.

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