Ingrown Toenails in 2025 ! The Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
An ingrown toenail, or onychocryptosis occurs when a toenail grows into the adjacent skin, resulting in pain, swelling, and inflammation. The big toe is usually impacted, thus resulting in impaired lifestyle habits. It is important to understand its causes and symptoms for early recognition, exploring treatment options, and using preventive methods for optimal foot health. Click to read more
NAIL TREATMENTINGROWN TOENAIL
Treatment of ingrown toenail at Dermafelix
here is glimpse of how we treat ingrown toe nail at Dermafelix by Dermatosurgeon Dr Fatima Tuz Zahra
how to treat ingrown toe nail
There are multiple reasons for the development of ingrown toenails:
Improper care of nails: Contour rounding and trimming nails too short can cause the nail to dig into the skin. Nail tapering is not recommended. The structure should be in a straight form.
Shoes: Shoes that are too tight, narrow, or have low shallow toe boxes cause undue pressure on toenails, increasing the chances of their becoming ingrown.
Trauma: Stubbing toes or dropping heavy objects can result in toe trauma, which can cause nail distortion and subsequent ingrown nails.Write your text here...
Recognizing the symptoms
Identifying ingrown toenails early can prevent complications:
Pain and Tenderness: Discomfort along the nail's edge, especially when pressure is applied.
Swelling and Redness: Inflammation of the surrounding skin, which may become warm to the touch.
Infection Signs: If the area becomes infected, symptoms may include pus drainage, increased pain, and further redness.
While some ingrown toenails can be managed at home, it's essential to seek medical attention if:
Pain and swelling persist or worsen despite home care.
Signs of infection, such as pus or increased redness, develop.
Underlying health conditions like diabetes that affect foot health.
When to Seek dermatologist consultation
Preventing Ingrown Toenails
Causes of ingrown toenails
Treatment varies based on severity:
Home Care: For mild cases, soaking the foot in warm water several times daily, keeping the area clean, and wearing comfortable shoes may alleviate symptoms.
Medical Intervention: If there are no improvement or signs of infection present, it's crucial to consult a healthcare provider to get the required intervention.
Lift the Nail: Gently placing cotton or dental floss under the nail to encourage it to grow above the skin.
Partial Nail Removal: In persistent cases, removing a portion of the nail under local anesthesia to allow proper healing.
Surgical Procedures: For recurrent ingrown toenails, procedures like complete nail removal with phenolization, where the nail matrix is treated to prevent regrowth, may be recommended.
Implementing preventive measures can reduce the risk:
Proper Nail Trimming: Cut nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short or rounding the edges.
Appropriate Footwear: Opt for shoes that provide ample space for toes and avoid those that are tight or narrow.
Protecting Your Toes: Always wear protective footwear during activities that pose a risk of toe injury.
Maintaining Foot Hygiene: Regularly wash and dry your feet, and keep nails trimmed and filed to prevent abnormalities.
Ingrown toenails are a common yet manageable condition. By understanding their causes, recognizing early symptoms, seeking appropriate treatment, and adopting preventive strategies, you can maintain healthy feet and avoid potential complications. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment options.