Dealing with Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments - Dermatology

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Ingrown toenails, medically known as onychocryptosis, occur when the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the surrounding skin. This condition can lead to pain, swelling, redness, and sometimes infection. It is most commonly seen in the big toe but can affect any toe. Let’s explore the causes, symptoms, and treatments for ingrown toenails.


Causes
1. Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.

2. Footwear: Tight shoes or high heels can put pressure on the toes, leading to ingrown toenails.

3. Genetics: Some individuals may have a hereditary predisposition to ingrown toenails due to the shape of their toenails.

4. Injury: Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing it or dropping something on it, can cause the nail to grow improperly.

5. Moisture: Excessive sweating or not keeping feet dry can contribute to nail growth issues.


Symptoms
The symptoms of ingrown toenails can vary in severity but typically include:
- Pain: A sharp pain at the site of the ingrown nail, which may worsen when pressure is applied (e.g., when wearing shoes).

- Swelling: The skin around the nail may become swollen and inflamed.

- Redness: The area around the nail may appear red and irritated.

- Infection: In some cases, pus or drainage may occur if the area becomes infected, leading to increased pain and swelling.


Treatments
1. Home Care:
- Soaking: Soaking the affected foot in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and relieve pain.

- Cotton Wedge: After soaking, placing a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the ingrown edge of the nail can help lift it away from the skin.

- Proper Footwear: Wearing open-toed shoes or sandals can alleviate pressure on the affected toe.

2. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help manage pain and reduce inflammation.

3. Antibiotics: If there is an infection, a healthcare provider may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics.

4. Professional Treatment: If home remedies do not alleviate the problem, or if the ingrown toenail is severe, it may be necessary to see a podiatrist. Treatment options may include:
- Partial Nail Removal: The doctor may remove the portion of the nail that is ingrown.

- Nail Matrix Surgery: In recurrent cases, the nail matrix (the tissue that produces the nail) may be destroyed to prevent the nail from growing back.

- Chemical Matrixectomy: A chemical agent may be applied to the nail matrix to prevent regrowth.

5. Prevention: To prevent future occurrences, consider the following:
- Trim toenails straight across and avoid rounding the edges.

- Wear properly fitting shoes that provide enough room for the toes.

- Keep feet clean and dry to reduce the risk of infection.


Conclusion
Ingrown toenails can be a painful and frustrating condition, but with proper care and treatment, they can be managed effectively. If you are experiencing persistent pain or signs of infection, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate evaluation and treatment. Regular foot care and proper nail trimming techniques can help prevent ingrown toenails from recurring.