How to tell if toenail is ingrown. Ingrown Toenails: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

31.07.202310.06.2023 by alexxlab

What are the signs of an ingrown toenail. How can you identify the symptoms of an ingrown toenail. What causes ingrown toenails and who is at risk. What are the treatment options for ingrown toenails, both at home and medically. How can ingrown toenails be prevented.

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Understanding Ingrown Toenails: A Common Foot Problem

Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of your nails grow into the skin next to the nail. This condition most commonly affects the big toe and can cause significant discomfort and potential complications if left untreated. While ingrown toenails can affect both men and women, certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing this condition.

Who is at risk for ingrown toenails?

According to the National Health Services (NHS), ingrown toenails may be more prevalent in individuals with sweaty feet, such as teenagers. Additionally, older adults may face a higher risk due to the natural thickening of toenails that occurs with age. People who engage in activities that put repetitive pressure on their feet, such as ballet dancers, football players, and soccer enthusiasts, are also more susceptible to developing ingrown toenails.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails typically progress through stages, with symptoms worsening over time if left untreated. Identifying the early signs can help you address the problem promptly and prevent potential complications.

Early-stage symptoms of ingrown toenails

Tenderness, swelling, or hardening of the skin next to the nail
Pain when pressure is applied to the toe
Fluid buildup around the affected area

Advanced symptoms and signs of infection

Redness and increased swelling of the surrounding skin
Intense pain
Bleeding
Discharge of pus
Overgrowth of skin around the toenail

If you notice any of these symptoms, especially signs of infection, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly to prevent further complications.

Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Understanding the factors that contribute to ingrown toenails can help you take preventive measures and reduce your risk of developing this painful condition.

What are the primary causes of ingrown toenails?

Improper toenail trimming techniques
Irregular or curved toenail shape
Ill-fitting footwear that puts pressure on the toes
Toenail injuries from stubbing, dropping heavy objects, or repetitive kicking
Poor posture
Inadequate foot hygiene
Genetic predisposition

It’s important to note that while some causes are within our control, others may be related to inherited traits or unavoidable circumstances. By addressing the factors we can influence, we can significantly reduce the risk of developing ingrown toenails.

Diagnosing Ingrown Toenails: When to See a Doctor

While many cases of ingrown toenails can be treated at home, certain situations warrant professional medical attention. Understanding when to consult a healthcare provider is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment.

How do doctors diagnose ingrown toenails?

In most cases, a doctor can diagnose an ingrown toenail through a physical examination of the affected toe. They will assess the severity of the condition and check for signs of infection. If an infection is suspected or the nail has grown deep into the surrounding skin, your doctor may recommend an X-ray to determine the extent of the problem and rule out any underlying bone infections.

When should you seek medical attention for an ingrown toenail?

If you have diabetes or poor circulation
When there are signs of infection (redness, warmth, pus, or fever)
If the pain is severe or interferes with daily activities
When home remedies fail to improve the condition after several days
If you have a history of recurring ingrown toenails

Prompt medical attention in these situations can help prevent complications and ensure appropriate treatment.

Home Remedies for Ingrown Toenails

For mild cases of ingrown toenails without signs of infection, several home remedies can provide relief and promote healing.

What are effective home treatments for ingrown toenails?

Soak your feet in warm water for 15-20 minutes, 3-4 times daily
Gently push the skin away from the nail edge using a cotton ball soaked in olive oil
Use over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen to manage discomfort
Apply a topical antibiotic ointment, such as Neosporin, to prevent infection
Keep your feet dry and wear comfortable, well-fitting shoes

It’s important to monitor your condition closely while trying home remedies. If symptoms worsen or persist after a few days to a week, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.

Medical Treatments for Ingrown Toenails

When home remedies are ineffective or an infection develops, medical intervention may be necessary to address the ingrown toenail and prevent complications.

What medical treatments are available for ingrown toenails?

Partial nail removal: The doctor removes only the portion of the nail growing into the skin
Total nail removal: In severe cases, the entire nail may need to be removed
Nail matrix destruction: A chemical or laser treatment to prevent nail regrowth in chronic cases
Antibiotics: Prescribed for infected ingrown toenails

The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the condition, the presence of infection, and whether it’s a recurring problem. Your doctor will recommend the most appropriate option based on your individual case.

Preventing Ingrown Toenails: Tips for Healthy Feet

Taking proactive measures to prevent ingrown toenails can save you from discomfort and potential complications. By incorporating these preventive strategies into your foot care routine, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing this painful condition.

How can you prevent ingrown toenails?

Trim your toenails straight across, avoiding rounded edges
Keep toenails at a moderate length, neither too short nor too long
Wear properly fitting shoes with adequate toe room
Choose breathable footwear and moisture-wicking socks
Practice good foot hygiene, including regular cleaning and drying
Protect your feet during high-impact activities
Address any underlying foot conditions, such as fungal infections

By following these preventive measures, you can maintain healthy toenails and reduce the likelihood of developing ingrown toenails. Remember that consistent foot care is key to preventing various foot-related issues, not just ingrown toenails.

Ingrown Toenails in Special Populations

Certain groups of people may be more susceptible to ingrown toenails or face a higher risk of complications. Understanding these special considerations is crucial for appropriate management and prevention.

How do ingrown toenails affect people with diabetes?

Individuals with diabetes need to be particularly vigilant about foot care, including the prevention and treatment of ingrown toenails. Diabetes can lead to reduced sensation in the feet (neuropathy) and poor circulation, which can make it harder to detect and heal from foot injuries. Even a minor ingrown toenail can potentially lead to serious complications in diabetic patients.

If you have diabetes and suspect an ingrown toenail, it’s essential to seek professional medical care promptly rather than attempting home treatments. Regular foot examinations by a healthcare provider are also crucial for early detection and prevention of foot problems.

Are athletes at higher risk for ingrown toenails?

Athletes, especially those involved in sports that involve repetitive foot impact or tight-fitting footwear, may be more prone to developing ingrown toenails. Sports such as running, soccer, and ballet can put significant stress on the toes, potentially leading to nail damage or improper growth.

Athletes can reduce their risk by:

Wearing properly fitted athletic shoes with adequate toe room
Using moisture-wicking socks to keep feet dry
Trimming toenails correctly and regularly
Taking breaks to allow feet to rest and recover
Addressing any foot pain or discomfort promptly

By taking these precautions, athletes can maintain healthy feet and minimize the risk of developing ingrown toenails, allowing them to continue performing at their best.

Long-Term Management of Recurring Ingrown Toenails

For some individuals, ingrown toenails may be a recurring problem. Chronic ingrown toenails can be frustrating and painful, but there are strategies for long-term management and prevention.

What options are available for chronic ingrown toenails?

Permanent nail removal: In severe cases, a doctor may recommend permanently removing part or all of the nail to prevent future ingrowth.
Nail matrix ablation: This procedure uses chemicals or laser treatment to destroy the nail matrix, preventing regrowth of the problematic portion of the nail.
Custom orthotics: For those with foot structure issues contributing to ingrown toenails, custom orthotics may help alleviate pressure on the toes.
Regular podiatric care: Routine visits to a podiatrist can help manage chronic nail issues and prevent complications.

It’s important to work closely with a healthcare provider to determine the best long-term management strategy for recurring ingrown toenails. This may involve a combination of preventive measures, medical treatments, and lifestyle adjustments to keep your feet healthy and pain-free.

Can lifestyle changes help prevent recurring ingrown toenails?

Yes, making certain lifestyle changes can significantly reduce the risk of developing recurring ingrown toenails. Consider the following adjustments:

Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on your feet
Choose footwear that provides adequate support and toe room
Practice stress-reduction techniques to improve overall circulation
Stay hydrated to promote healthy nail growth
Incorporate foot-strengthening exercises into your routine
Avoid going barefoot in public areas to prevent foot injuries and infections

By incorporating these lifestyle changes and maintaining good foot hygiene, you can significantly reduce your risk of developing recurring ingrown toenails and improve your overall foot health.

The Impact of Ingrown Toenails on Quality of Life

While ingrown toenails may seem like a minor concern, they can have a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life. Understanding these effects can emphasize the importance of proper foot care and prompt treatment.

How do ingrown toenails affect daily activities?

Ingrown toenails can cause:

Difficulty walking or engaging in physical activities
Discomfort when wearing shoes, especially those with a tight fit
Limitations in participating in sports or exercise routines
Embarrassment or self-consciousness about foot appearance
Sleep disturbances due to pain or discomfort

These effects can lead to reduced physical activity, social withdrawal, and even impact work performance. Recognizing these potential consequences underscores the importance of addressing ingrown toenails promptly and taking preventive measures to maintain foot health.

Can ingrown toenails have psychological effects?

Yes, the persistent pain and limitations caused by ingrown toenails can lead to psychological stress. Some individuals may experience:

Anxiety about developing future ingrown toenails
Frustration with recurring foot problems
Depression related to chronic pain or limited mobility
Decreased self-esteem due to foot appearance or odor concerns

Addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of ingrown toenails is crucial for comprehensive care. If you find that foot problems are significantly impacting your mental well-being, don’t hesitate to discuss these concerns with your healthcare provider.

By understanding the full scope of how ingrown toenails can affect your life, you can better appreciate the importance of proper foot care and seek timely treatment when needed. Remember, healthy feet contribute significantly to overall well-being and quality of life.

Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

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Home treatment

To treat your ingrown toenail at home, try:

soaking your feet in warm water for about 15 to 20 minutes three to four times per day (At other times, your shoes and feet should be kept dry.)
pushing skin away from the toenail edge with a cotton ball soaked in olive oil
using over-the-counter medicines, like acetaminophen (Tylenol), for the pain
applying a topical antibiotic, such as polymyxin and neomycin (both present in Neosporin) or a steroid cream, to prevent infection

Try home treatments for a few days to a few weeks. If the pain worsens or you find it difficult to walk or perform other activities because of the nail, see your doctor.

If the toenail does not respond to home treatments or an infection occurs, you may need surgery. In cases of infection, stop all home treatments and see your doctor.

Surgical treatment

There are different types of surgical treatments for ingrown toenails. Partial nail removal only involves removing the piece of nail that is digging into your skin. Your doctor numbs your toe and then narrows the toenail. According to the NHS, partial nail removal is 98 percent effective for preventing future ingrown toenails.

During a partial nail removal, the sides of the nail are cut away so that the edges are completely straight. A piece of cotton is placed under the remaining portion of the nail to keep the ingrown toenail from recurring. Your doctor may also treat your toe with a compound called phenol, which keeps the nail from growing back.

Total nail removal may be used if your ingrown nail is caused by thickening. Your doctor will give you a local pain injection and then remove the entire nail in a procedure called a matrixectomy.

After surgery

After surgery, your doctor will send you home with your toe bandaged. You will probably need to keep your foot raised for the next one to two days and wear special footwear to allow your toe to heal properly.

Avoid movement as much as possible. Your bandage is usually removed two days after surgery. Your doctor will advise you to wear open-toe shoes and to do daily salt water soaks until your toe heals. You will also be prescribed pain relief medication and antibiotics to prevent infection.

Your toenail will likely grow back a few months after a partial nail removal surgery. If the entire nail is removed down to the base (the nail matrix under your skin), a toenail can take over a year to grow back.

If left untreated, an ingrown toenail infection can cause an infection in the bone in your toe. A toenail infection can also lead to foot ulcers, or open sores, and a loss of blood flow to the infected area. Tissue decay and tissue death at the site of infection are possible.

A foot infection can be more serious if you have diabetes. Even a small cut, scrape, or ingrown toenail may quickly become infected due to the lack of blood flow and nerve sensitivity. See your doctor right away if you have diabetes and are concerned about an ingrown toenail infection.

If you have a genetic predisposition to ingrown toenails, they may keep coming back or appear on multiple toes at once. Your quality of life may be affected by pain, infections, and other painful foot issues that require multiple treatments or surgeries. In this case, your doctor may recommend a partial or full matrixectomy to remove the toenails causing chronic pain. Read more about foot care and diabetes.

Ingrown toenails can be prevented by making several lifestyle changes:

Trim your toenails straight across and make sure that the edges do not curve in.
Avoid cutting toenails too short.
Wear proper fitting shoes, socks, and tights.
Wear steel-toe boots if you work in hazardous conditions.
If your toenails are abnormally curved or thick, surgery may be necessary to prevent ingrown nails.

A:

Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is strictly informational and should not be considered medical advice.

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Ingrown Toenails: Causes, Symptoms, and Diagnosis

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Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

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Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of your nails grow into the skin next to the nail. Your big toe is most likely to get an ingrown toenail.

If a toenail grows back into the skin around the nail bed, it’s known as an ingrown toenail. These can be painful and can become infected.

Many things can cause an ingrown toenail, including:

cutting toenails incorrectly (Cut straight across, since angling the sides of the nail can encourage the nail to grow into the skin. )
irregular, curved toenails
footwear that places a lot of pressure on the big toes, such as socks and stockings that are too tight or shoes that are too tight, narrow, or flat for your feet
toenail injury, including stubbing your toe, dropping something heavy on your foot, or kicking a ball repeatedly
poor posture
improper foot hygiene, such as not keeping your feet clean or dry
genetic predisposition

ballet
football
kickboxing
soccer

Ingrown toenails can be painful, and they usually worsen in stages.

Early-stage symptoms include:

skin next to the nail becoming tender, swollen, or hard
pain when pressure is placed on the toe
fluid building up around the toe

If your toe becomes infected, symptoms may include:

red, swollen skin
pain
bleeding
oozing pus
overgrowth of skin around the toe

Treat your ingrown toenail as soon as possible to avoid worsening symptoms.

If you need help finding a primary care doctor or gastroenterologist, you can browse doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

warmth
pus
redness and swelling