How can you alleviate the discomfort of an ingrown toenail. What are the most effective home remedies for treating ingrown toenails. Which medical treatments are available for severe cases of ingrown toenails. How can proper foot care prevent the occurrence of ingrown toenails.

Understanding Ingrown Toenails: Causes and Symptoms

Ingrown toenails are a common foot problem that affects approximately 20% of people at some point in their lives. This condition occurs when the corner or edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. The big toe is most frequently affected, but other toes can also develop this issue.

Several factors contribute to the development of ingrown toenails:

• Toenail trauma, such as stubbing your toe
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Improper toenail trimming techniques
• Poor foot hygiene
• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• Certain medications, including epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

Recognizing the symptoms of an ingrown toenail is crucial for early treatment and prevention of complications. Common signs include:

• Pain and tenderness along the nail edge
• Redness and swelling of the affected area
• Warmth around the toe
• Difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably

Soothing Foot Soaks: A Natural Relief for Ingrown Toenails

One of the most effective home remedies for ingrown toenails is a warm foot soak. This simple treatment can help reduce swelling, ease pain, and promote healing. To prepare a soothing foot soak:

1. Fill a basin with warm water
2. Add a gentle soap, such as Castile soap
3. Optionally, include Epsom salts for extra relief
4. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes
5. Repeat this process 2-3 times daily

Why are foot soaks beneficial for ingrown toenails? The warm water helps soften the skin and nail, making it easier to gently lift the ingrown edge. Additionally, the heat improves blood circulation to the area, promoting faster healing and reducing inflammation.

Apple Cider Vinegar Soak: A Folk Remedy Worth Trying

Apple cider vinegar has gained popularity as a natural remedy for various ailments, including ingrown toenails. While scientific evidence is limited, many people report relief from its use. To try an apple cider vinegar soak:

1. Mix 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar with warm water in a basin
2. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily
3. Dry your foot thoroughly after soaking

The potential benefits of apple cider vinegar for ingrown toenails include its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving properties. However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to confirm these effects scientifically.

Topical Treatments: Promoting Healing and Preventing Infection

Applying over-the-counter antiseptic ointments or creams can significantly aid in the healing process of ingrown toenails while reducing the risk of infection. These topical treatments typically contain active ingredients that combat bacteria and promote tissue repair.

Some effective over-the-counter options include:

• Neomycin (Neosporin)
• Bacitracin/polymyxin B (Polysporin)
• Mupirocin (Bactroban)

To use these ointments effectively:

1. Clean and dry the affected area thoroughly
2. Apply a small amount of the ointment to the ingrown toenail
3. Cover the area with a bandage to keep the medication in place
4. Repeat the application up to three times daily, following the manufacturer’s instructions

Why is it important to use antiseptic ointments for ingrown toenails? These products create a protective barrier against bacteria, reducing the risk of infection and promoting faster healing. Additionally, some ointments contain ingredients that help soften the nail, making it easier to manage the ingrown edge.

Pain Management: Over-the-Counter Solutions for Ingrown Toenail Discomfort

Managing the pain associated with ingrown toenails is crucial for maintaining comfort and allowing the healing process to proceed. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be effective in alleviating discomfort and reducing inflammation.

Acetaminophen: A Safe Option for Pain Relief

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is a popular choice for managing ingrown toenail pain. It works by blocking pain signals in the brain, providing relief without directly addressing inflammation. When using acetaminophen:

• Follow the recommended dosage of 2 325 mg tablets every 4 to 6 hours
• Do not exceed 10 tablets in 24 hours
• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking acetaminophen

Ibuprofen: Targeting Pain and Inflammation

For cases where swelling is present, ibuprofen (Advil) may be a more suitable option. This nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) addresses both pain and inflammation. When using ibuprofen:

• Take as directed by the manufacturer or a healthcare professional
• Be aware of potential side effects, such as stomach upset or abdominal pain
• Avoid long-term use without consulting a doctor

How do these pain relievers differ in their approach to ingrown toenail discomfort? Acetaminophen primarily targets pain perception, while ibuprofen addresses both pain and inflammation. Choosing the right option depends on your specific symptoms and any underlying health conditions.

Protective Measures: Toe Protectors and Braces

Protecting the affected toe from further irritation is essential for promoting healing and preventing complications. Toe protectors and braces offer practical solutions for individuals dealing with ingrown toenails.

Toe Protectors: Cushioning and Comfort

Toe protectors provide a soft barrier between the ingrown toenail and surrounding surfaces, reducing pressure and friction. These devices come in various forms:

• Rings that fit around the affected area
• Full toe coverings
• Medicated options with nail-softening gels

To use a toe protector effectively:

1. Clean and dry the affected toe
2. Apply the protector according to the product instructions
3. Replace the protector regularly to maintain hygiene
4. Continue use until the ingrown toenail has healed

Toe Braces: Supporting Proper Nail Growth

Toe braces are thin composite devices designed to hold the toe in place and guide proper nail growth. These innovative products offer several benefits:

• Shield the skin from the ingrown nail edge
• Encourage the nail to grow in the correct direction
• Provide protection during daily activities

Why are toe protectors and braces valuable tools in managing ingrown toenails? These devices create a protective environment for the affected toe, reducing pain and preventing further damage to the surrounding skin. By alleviating pressure and guiding nail growth, they support the natural healing process and help prevent recurrence.

Footwear Considerations: Choosing the Right Shoes for Ingrown Toenail Prevention

Proper footwear plays a crucial role in both preventing and managing ingrown toenails. Shoes that are too tight or don’t provide adequate space for the toes can exacerbate existing problems and contribute to the development of new ingrown nails.

When selecting shoes to prevent or accommodate ingrown toenails, consider the following factors:

• Toe box width: Choose shoes with a wide toe box that allows your toes to move freely
• Length: Ensure there’s enough space between your longest toe and the end of the shoe
• Material: Opt for breathable materials that reduce moisture buildup
• Heel height: Lower heels put less pressure on the toes
• Activity-specific shoes: Use appropriate footwear for different activities to ensure proper support

During the healing process of an ingrown toenail, it’s advisable to:

1. Wear open-toed shoes or sandals when possible to reduce pressure on the affected toe
2. Choose socks made from moisture-wicking materials to keep feet dry
3. Avoid tight-fitting shoes or high heels that compress the toes

How does proper footwear contribute to ingrown toenail prevention and management? Shoes that fit well and provide adequate space for the toes reduce the risk of nail trauma and pressure-induced growth into the surrounding skin. By allowing the toes to maintain their natural position, proper footwear supports healthy nail growth and minimizes the likelihood of ingrown toenails developing.

Medical Interventions: When to Seek Professional Help

While many cases of ingrown toenails can be effectively managed at home, some situations require professional medical attention. Understanding when to seek help is crucial for preventing complications and ensuring proper treatment.

Signs That Warrant Medical Attention

Consider consulting a healthcare professional if you experience any of the following:

• Severe pain that interferes with daily activities
• Signs of infection, such as increased redness, warmth, or pus drainage
• Throbbing or pulsating sensation in the affected toe
• Fever or chills associated with the ingrown toenail
• Chronic ingrown toenails that recur frequently
• Ingrown toenails in individuals with diabetes or circulation problems

Professional Treatment Options

When home remedies are insufficient, healthcare providers may recommend various treatments:

1. Partial nail avulsion: Removing the ingrown portion of the nail
2. Phenolization: Applying a chemical to prevent regrowth of the problematic nail edge
3. Oral antibiotics: Prescribed for severe infections
4. Matrixectomy: Permanent removal of the nail matrix to prevent recurrence

Why is professional intervention sometimes necessary for ingrown toenails? Medical professionals have the expertise and tools to address severe or complicated cases that may not respond to home treatments. They can also provide targeted therapies to prevent recurrence and manage underlying conditions that contribute to ingrown toenails.

Preventive Measures: Maintaining Healthy Toenails

Preventing ingrown toenails is often easier than treating them. By adopting proper foot care habits and making lifestyle adjustments, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this painful condition.

Proper Nail Trimming Techniques

One of the most critical aspects of preventing ingrown toenails is proper nail trimming. Follow these guidelines:

• Cut nails straight across, avoiding rounded edges
• Use clean, sharp nail clippers or scissors
• Trim nails to a moderate length, neither too short nor too long
• File any sharp edges gently with an emery board

Foot Hygiene and Care

Maintaining good foot hygiene is essential for preventing ingrown toenails and other foot problems:

1. Wash feet daily with soap and water, paying attention to the areas between toes
2. Dry feet thoroughly, especially between toes
3. Moisturize feet to prevent dry, cracked skin
4. Wear clean, dry socks and change them daily
5. Rotate shoes to allow them to dry completely between uses

Lifestyle Considerations

Certain lifestyle factors can influence your risk of developing ingrown toenails:

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your feet
• Avoid activities that repeatedly impact the toes, or use protective gear
• Address any underlying conditions, such as fungal infections or diabetes, that may affect foot health
• Consider professional pedicures from licensed technicians who follow proper hygiene practices

How do these preventive measures contribute to overall foot health? By implementing proper nail care techniques, maintaining good hygiene, and addressing lifestyle factors, you create an environment that supports healthy nail growth and reduces the risk of ingrown toenails. These practices not only prevent painful conditions but also promote overall foot comfort and well-being.

10 Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails cause pain, redness, and swelling. Home remedies and medical treatments can help relieve symptoms and prevent future infections.

Ingrown toenails are a common problem, especially for people who wear shoes that are too tight or don’t allow their feet to breathe.

Around 20 percent of people experience an ingrown toenail at some point in their lives. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail can include pain and swelling of the toe. Sometimes, the nail may become infected.

There are many treatments for ingrown toenails, ranging from home remedies to surgery. In most cases, you can treat an ingrown toenail at home with over-the-counter medication or home remedies. However, if the nail is infected or causing severe pain, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.

An ingrown toenail happens when the corner or edge of your toenail curves and grows into the surrounding skin. This may cause pain, redness, and swelling. The condition is very common in both men and women. Your big toe is most likely to be affected.

Common causes of ingrown toenails are:

• toenail trauma, such as stubbing your toe
• wearing shoes that are too tight
• cutting toenails too short
• cutting toenails at an angle
• poor foot hygiene
• excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• certain medications, including epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

To prevent infection, it’s important to treat ingrown toenails as soon as they occur. Mild cases may require minor treatment with home remedies. Serious cases may need surgical intervention.

The following treatments can help relieve pain and promote the healing of an ingrown toenail.

Soaking the affected foot may help reduce swelling and ease the pain. You can soak your foot in warm, soapy water for up to 20 minutes at a time. Castile soap is a good option. Adding Epsom salts to the water may bring additional relief.

Apple cider vinegar is a folk remedy for almost everything these days, including ingrown toenails. It’s believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving abilities, although scientific evidence is limited.

To try this remedy, prepare a basin of warm water combined with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily. Dry your foot thoroughly after soaking.

Some experts recommend tucking small bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the edge of an ingrown toenail to encourage proper nail growth. Not every medical group agrees.

According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, placing cotton under your nail may increase pain and allow harmful bacteria to thrive. Soaking the cotton or floss in alcohol before application may help reduce this risk.

Using over-the-counter antiseptic ointment or cream can promote healing and help reduce the risk of infection. Apply the ointment to the affected toenail following the manufacturer’s instructions, usually up to three times daily.

These ointments can include:

• neomycin (Neosporin)
• bacitracin/polymyxin B (Polysporin)
• mupirocin (Bactroban)

Be sure to bandage the toenail after application.

Shoes and socks that are too tight can crowd your toes. Improper footwear is a leading cause of ingrown toenails. To help prevent an ingrown toenail from developing or worsening, wear shoes and socks or hosiery that fit but still leave ample space in the toe bed. During the healing process, avoid shoes or wear sandals as much as possible to limit pressure on your toenails.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help relieve ingrown toenail pain. Side effects are unusual unless you take more than the daily recommended amount of 2 325 milligram (mg) tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed 10 tablets in 24 hours and don’t take it with alcohol.

If swelling is present, ibuprofen (Advil) may be a better option because it relieves both pain and swelling. Some common side effects of ibuprofen include abdominal pain, upset stomach, and diarrhea.

Take all over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by the manufacturer or a doctor.

A toe protector provides a cushioning barrier for ingrown toenails. Toe protectors are available as rings that fit around the affected area or as a covering for the entire toe. Some brands of toe protectors, such as Dr. Scholl’s, come with a medicated gel to help soften toenails for easy trimming. Use the treatment as directed until the ingrown toenail is gone.

Toe braces are thin composite devices that hold the toe in place and shield the skin from as a new nail grows back. They help treat and prevent ingrown toenails. You can find toe braces online and in some pharmacies.

Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics for a severe ingrown toenail infection that doesn’t respond to other remedies and treatments. Oral antibiotics help reduce pain and swelling while also fighting infection.

Some signs of infection may include:

• increased redness
• throbbing pain
• increased swelling
• pus
• warmth in the affected toe and its surrounding area
• foul odor

Some antibiotics used to treat infected ingrown toenails are ampicillin (Omnipen), amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag), and vancomycin (Vancocin).

If an ingrown toenail doesn’t improve with home remedies, partial or full removal of the nail may be necessary. Using a local anesthetic, a doctor may remove part of the nail’s border, the underlying nail bed, or part of the middle growth plate.

In severe, recurring cases, the doctor may recommend removing the entire ingrown nail. This is the last resort and a potentially painful solution that may increase your risk of infection. It also increases the risk of a misshapen toenail as it grows back.

Minor foot problems like ingrown toenails may cause serious complications in some people. See the doctor if you have an ingrown toenail and you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation, or you have a compromised immune system.

You should also see a doctor if:

• pain and swelling are severe
• home remedies don’t improve the condition
• you have an allergic skin reaction to a home remedy
• you have questions about how to care for an ingrown toenail

Most ingrown toenails aren’t serious. They should improve within a week or so without causing permanent damage with the proper home care. Left untreated, ingrown toenails may cause severe pain and infection that could spread to deeper layers of skin.

It’s common for ingrown toenails to recur, especially if you don’t take steps to prevent them.

Prevention tips

• Move around carefully to avoid toenail trauma.
• Trim your toenails straight across, no shorter than the tip of your toe.
• If your job increases your risk of toenail injury, wear protective footgear.

Was this helpful?

Ingrown toenails can be painful, but they’re usually easy to treat at home. Wearing proper-fitting shoes, trimming your nails straight across, and soaking your feet can help prevent ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails usually heal without causing permanent damage. But, sometimes, they can lead to serious complications. See your doctor if you have an underlying condition that puts you at risk for complications, such as diabetes.

10 Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails cause pain, redness, and swelling. Home remedies and medical treatments can help relieve symptoms and prevent future infections.

Ingrown toenails are a common problem, especially for people who wear shoes that are too tight or don’t allow their feet to breathe.

Around 20 percent of people experience an ingrown toenail at some point in their lives. Symptoms of an ingrown toenail can include pain and swelling of the toe. Sometimes, the nail may become infected.

There are many treatments for ingrown toenails, ranging from home remedies to surgery. In most cases, you can treat an ingrown toenail at home with over-the-counter medication or home remedies. However, if the nail is infected or causing severe pain, you may need to see a doctor for treatment.

An ingrown toenail happens when the corner or edge of your toenail curves and grows into the surrounding skin. This may cause pain, redness, and swelling. The condition is very common in both men and women. Your big toe is most likely to be affected.

Common causes of ingrown toenails are:

• toenail trauma, such as stubbing your toe
• wearing shoes that are too tight
• cutting toenails too short
• cutting toenails at an angle
• poor foot hygiene
• excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)
• certain medications, including epidermal growth factor receptor inhibitors

To prevent infection, it’s important to treat ingrown toenails as soon as they occur. Mild cases may require minor treatment with home remedies. Serious cases may need surgical intervention.

The following treatments can help relieve pain and promote the healing of an ingrown toenail.

Soaking the affected foot may help reduce swelling and ease the pain. You can soak your foot in warm, soapy water for up to 20 minutes at a time. Castile soap is a good option. Adding Epsom salts to the water may bring additional relief.

Apple cider vinegar is a folk remedy for almost everything these days, including ingrown toenails. It’s believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and pain-relieving abilities, although scientific evidence is limited.

To try this remedy, prepare a basin of warm water combined with 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar. Soak the affected foot for up to 20 minutes daily. Dry your foot thoroughly after soaking.

Some experts recommend tucking small bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the edge of an ingrown toenail to encourage proper nail growth. Not every medical group agrees.

According to the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons, placing cotton under your nail may increase pain and allow harmful bacteria to thrive. Soaking the cotton or floss in alcohol before application may help reduce this risk.

Using over-the-counter antiseptic ointment or cream can promote healing and help reduce the risk of infection. Apply the ointment to the affected toenail following the manufacturer’s instructions, usually up to three times daily.

These ointments can include:

• neomycin (Neosporin)
• bacitracin/polymyxin B (Polysporin)
• mupirocin (Bactroban)

Be sure to bandage the toenail after application.

Shoes and socks that are too tight can crowd your toes. Improper footwear is a leading cause of ingrown toenails. To help prevent an ingrown toenail from developing or worsening, wear shoes and socks or hosiery that fit but still leave ample space in the toe bed. During the healing process, avoid shoes or wear sandals as much as possible to limit pressure on your toenails.

Acetaminophen (Tylenol) may help relieve ingrown toenail pain. Side effects are unusual unless you take more than the daily recommended amount of 2 325 milligram (mg) tablets every 4 to 6 hours. Do not exceed 10 tablets in 24 hours and don’t take it with alcohol.

If swelling is present, ibuprofen (Advil) may be a better option because it relieves both pain and swelling. Some common side effects of ibuprofen include abdominal pain, upset stomach, and diarrhea.

Take all over-the-counter pain relievers as directed by the manufacturer or a doctor.

A toe protector provides a cushioning barrier for ingrown toenails. Toe protectors are available as rings that fit around the affected area or as a covering for the entire toe. Some brands of toe protectors, such as Dr. Scholl’s, come with a medicated gel to help soften toenails for easy trimming. Use the treatment as directed until the ingrown toenail is gone.

Toe braces are thin composite devices that hold the toe in place and shield the skin from as a new nail grows back. They help treat and prevent ingrown toenails. You can find toe braces online and in some pharmacies.

Your doctor may prescribe oral antibiotics for a severe ingrown toenail infection that doesn’t respond to other remedies and treatments. Oral antibiotics help reduce pain and swelling while also fighting infection.

Some signs of infection may include:

• increased redness
• throbbing pain
• increased swelling
• pus
• warmth in the affected toe and its surrounding area
• foul odor

Some antibiotics used to treat infected ingrown toenails are ampicillin (Omnipen), amoxicillin (Amoxil, Moxatag), and vancomycin (Vancocin).

If an ingrown toenail doesn’t improve with home remedies, partial or full removal of the nail may be necessary. Using a local anesthetic, a doctor may remove part of the nail’s border, the underlying nail bed, or part of the middle growth plate.

In severe, recurring cases, the doctor may recommend removing the entire ingrown nail. This is the last resort and a potentially painful solution that may increase your risk of infection. It also increases the risk of a misshapen toenail as it grows back.

Minor foot problems like ingrown toenails may cause serious complications in some people. See the doctor if you have an ingrown toenail and you have diabetes or another condition that causes poor circulation, or you have a compromised immune system.

You should also see a doctor if:

• pain and swelling are severe
• home remedies don’t improve the condition
• you have an allergic skin reaction to a home remedy
• you have questions about how to care for an ingrown toenail

Most ingrown toenails aren’t serious. They should improve within a week or so without causing permanent damage with the proper home care. Left untreated, ingrown toenails may cause severe pain and infection that could spread to deeper layers of skin.

It’s common for ingrown toenails to recur, especially if you don’t take steps to prevent them.

Prevention tips

• Move around carefully to avoid toenail trauma.
• Trim your toenails straight across, no shorter than the tip of your toe.
• If your job increases your risk of toenail injury, wear protective footgear.

Was this helpful?

Ingrown toenails can be painful, but they’re usually easy to treat at home. Wearing proper-fitting shoes, trimming your nails straight across, and soaking your feet can help prevent ingrown toenails.

Ingrown toenails usually heal without causing permanent damage. But, sometimes, they can lead to serious complications. See your doctor if you have an underlying condition that puts you at risk for complications, such as diabetes.

Ingrown toenail treatment at home

If at an early stage an ingrown nail is often seen only by a podologist, then in the future the problem is already obvious – swelling, redness, bruising, aching pain when walking appears. The nail roller noticeably thickens. Urgent medical attention is required.

Causes

The main causes of the disease:

• use of uncomfortable shoes that squeeze the toes and prevent normal growth of the nail plates;
• tight socks made of synthetic fabrics;
• errors in the work of a pedicure master or an inaccurately trimmed nail;
• plate deformation;
• fungal infection of the plate;
• impaired circulation;
• finger injury;
• genetic inheritance;
• physiological features.

The most vulnerable place for the appearance of an ingrown toenail is the big toes.

Main stages of development of onychrocryptosis

The disease proceeds in several stages:

1. When walking in tight shoes or when squeezing a toe, discomfort and pain occur. Pronounced inflammatory effect at the first stage.
2. Swelling and slight reddening of the skin folds appear in the affected area. The pain when squeezed becomes acute, the tissues begin to become inflamed.
3. The damaged area becomes very inflamed, pus begins to flow. Side bolsters in deep red. Temperature rise is possible. Severe pain becomes constant.
4. The skin on the damaged area thickens, the deformation of the nail fold begins. The pain becomes acute, the inability to walk in shoes.

With onychrocryptosis, treatment is required, it is best to contact a podology center or a beauty center where a podiatrist works.

At the first stage, the treatment will be quick – follow the doctor’s recommendations. When the first pain sensations appear and there are suspicions of an ingrown nail, it is recommended to treat the reddened area with antiseptic preparations 2 times a day. Avoid tight shoes and thick synthetic socks. Light cotton socks and regular hygiene are important components of treatment and prevention. Antiseptic drugs will prevent the development of the inflammatory process. The nail plate will grow back, return to its original position and will not cause discomfort.

Ingrown toenail risk group

The presence of onychrocryptosis can be a serious problem for patients with diabetes. The specificity of this serious disease is a violation of tissue trophism. The damaged area quickly attaches other infections. The inflammatory process proceeds faster, with serious consequences. An ingrown toenail often causes gangrene. Onychrocryptosis in the presence of diabetes is treated exclusively by a podiatrist.

How and what to treat at home

We strongly discourage self-treatment. Treatment is the task of the podiatrist. Consider the tools and techniques that are used at home, as well as the possible consequences.

One of the most common methods of treating pathology are ointments. In the initial stages, use:

• Levomekol;
• Iichthyol ointment;
• Uroderm;
• Vishnevsky ointment;
• Ointment based on calendula.

Levomekol is evenly distributed over the surface of the bandage with a layer of small thickness. The impregnated bandage is applied to the affected area and the finger is bandaged. In advanced cases, it is recommended to inject levomekol into the affected area of ​​the skin with a syringe. For painlessness, the ointment is heated to the temperature of the human body.

When using ichthyol ointment, you must make sure that there is no allergic reaction to this drug. The remedy is applied at night. The ointment is applied to a bandage or gauze, applied to the affected area and bandaged. Additionally, the finger is wrapped in cling film. The result of the treatment comes no earlier than a week later.

The main active ingredient of Uroderm is urea, which effectively softens the skin and nail plate. The ointment is applied to the area between the skin roller and the nail plate for several days. After a few days of treatment, the deformed edge of the nail can be removed without difficulty.

Vishnevsky’s ointment is intended for disinfection of the affected area. As a result of the application, inflammation is removed and pain disappears.

Ointment based on calendula can be prepared independently. This will require melted pork fat and 50 g of finely chopped calendula flower. The fat is heated, a medicinal plant is added to it and the composition is brought to a boil. On low heat, the ointment boils for 20 minutes, after which it is cooled at room temperature. Used for dressing at night.

Therapeutic baths and compressors are an effective remedy for ingrown nails in the early stages of the disease. Well removes the inflammatory process and softens the pain of a salt bath. Hot water is drawn into a container convenient for the procedure so that it covers the foot. Add a few tablespoons of ordinary table salt, mix and lower the leg. The duration of the procedure is at least 20 minutes.

A soapy bath steams the nail plate well. The recipe is simple – a piece of soap is dissolved in hot water, the foot is immersed in the bath for 20 minutes. The steamed nail becomes soft, you can lift it, put a small piece of cotton under it and set the plate in the correct direction.

An alternative to these baths is a milk compress. It is enough to dip a bandage into boiled milk. The impregnated tissue is applied to the affected area and fixed on top with cling film. A cotton sock is worn over the top. The nail plate will soften in 3-4 hours and it will be possible to cut off the corner that grows into the tissue.

You can wash the affected area with propolis tincture. The procedure is carried out several times a day. At night, a compress with this tincture is recommended. In a few days, the inflammation is removed and the plate can be corrected. Chamomile baths soften nails well. To do this, you need to make an infusion: pour 6 tablespoons of flowers into 2 liters of boiling water and insist for 1.5-2 hours. A bath with chamomile is taken for 15 minutes.

At night, a plantain compress is also made. You will need two fresh leaves of plants: one of them is finely chopped, applied to the affected nail, and the second is wrapped with a finger. Apply a bandage and leave until the morning.

Ingrown toenail treatment: radical methods

The radical solution is surgical.

Running cases lead to the appearance of pus, poorly stopped bleeding. Self-treatment in these conditions becomes unproductive. Complications cannot be ignored, they cause general blood poisoning, gangrene, amputation of the finger.

The removal of one of the symptoms only postpones the visit to the doctor, complicates the treatment. It is not necessary to worsen the situation, a timely appeal to a specialist will allow you to do without long-term treatment.

When to contact a podiatrist

With the timely detection of pathology, the optimal course of treatment with the use of antiseptics is 4-5 days. If after this period the inflammation could not be removed, then it is necessary to contact a podiatrist. In the absence of a specialized specialist, make an appointment with a surgeon.

In the clinic, an ingrown nail is removed with specially prepared surgical instruments. The doctor uses a local anesthetic to relieve pain.

The podiatrist rarely uses radical methods of treatment. At the disposal of a specialist of this profile there are special plates and staples, with the help of which the nail plate rises and the direction of growth changes. The recovery process lasts at least 2 weeks, but pain disappears after the first visit to the doctor. In advanced conditions, plates and staples are installed for up to 2-3 months.

The use of folk methods and antiseptics only temporarily relieves symptoms and facilitates the course of the disease. Eliminating the ingrown nail, remove the source of infection, improve the quality of life. Contact podiatrists at Ola Beauty Centers.

Ingrown toenail treatment at home

Ingrown toenail – how to treat at home.

An ingrown toenail is a serious condition in which damage occurs to the skin fold surrounding the nail plate.

The main symptoms of the disease include:

– Pain when squeezing the finger. During movement, there is discomfort and aching pain on the finger;

– Redness. Around the nail there is local redness;

– Edema;

– Bleeding. In the place where the nail damages the skin of the finger, there is a slight bleeding;

– Pus. Pus appears under the nail and from the infected nail fold.

– Hypergranulation. The nail roller noticeably thickens.

Stages of ingrowth

Several main stages of nail plate ingrowth should be distinguished:

Stage 1: Pain when walking in tight shoes. Pain occurs at the moment of pressing on the area of ​​damage to the finger. At this stage, there is no pronounced inflammatory effect.

Stage 2: Appearance of local edema and redness on the lateral skin ridges. The person is in severe pain. An inflammatory process occurs on the injured finger.

Stage 3: There is a separation of pus and blood from the affected area. The side bolsters become more and more saturated red. There is severe pain and inflammation.

Stage 4: Hypergranulation of the skin. The nail roller thickens and deforms. The pain becomes more acute. The inflammatory process intensifies.

Treatment

An ingrown nail makes the patient think about what to do and whether it can be cured at home?

In the first stages, you can heal yourself. To do this, if pain occurs, redness of the skin near the nail is detected, it is recommended to treat the ingrown nail and the skin near it with antiseptic preparations a couple of times a day. Further, it is recommended to apply a special bandage to the affected area. It will protect the affected area and allow the skin to breathe freely. So you can get rid of the disease – an ingrown nail, and treatment at home allows you to timely prevent the serious consequences of this disease.

Thanks to the antiseptic treatment of the finger, infection is prevented in the local area of ​​the skin lesion. This will slow down the further development of the inflammatory process. As a result, the nail will grow back and return to its original position.

Complications

Diabetes mellitus can become a complication of this disease. In this case, the inflammation proceeds much faster, taking into account the violation of tissue trophism. The area of ​​damage to the skin remains open for a long time. In this regard, it is recommended that people who suffer from diabetes do not self-medicate. In this case, you must immediately contact medical institutions, where the appropriate specialists will provide the necessary assistance.

How to treat an ingrown toenail at home in a different way?

Other more radical treatments are available. These include self-cutting the affected area of ​​the nail. This is a rather dangerous procedure, which in rare cases gives a positive outcome. When cutting out the edge of the nail that grows into the finger, there is only a temporary relief of pain. As a rule, another angle remains, which is located closer to the cuticle. The splitting of the nail into several separate parts at once can occur. This leads to the simultaneous occurrence of a number of foci of inflammation. As a result, the nail grows back and everything also begins to penetrate the soft tissues. The inflammation becomes chronic. At this stage, a person develops hypergranulation, which is expressed by the fact that the skin is layered around the ingrown part of the nail.

With the appearance of purulent discharge and bleeding, home treatment becomes less productive. Most patients in the presence of such manifestations ignore this problem for a long time. This leads to complications, including amputation of the injured finger or general blood poisoning.

It can be argued that home treatment of an ingrown toenail by simply cutting off the nail is only symptomatic relief, not a cure for the problem. In the long term, this type of treatment leads to a worsening of the situation.

When to contact specialists?

If during the first four days of treatment at home with an antiseptic did not bring the desired effect and the inflammatory process only intensified, it is recommended to seek help from a surgeon or a podiatrist.