Let’s take a closer look at 3 common causes

Let's take a closer look at 3 common causes

What causes ingrown toenails?

Ingrown toenails are a common problem that can affect anyone. They occur when the nail grows into the skin around the nail, causing pain, redness, and swelling. There are a number of factors that can contribute to the development of ingrown toenails, including:

Improper nail trimming: Cutting your toenails too short or rounding the corners can increase the risk of an ingrown toenail. This is because the nail is more likely to grow into the skin if it is not trimmed straight across.

Wearing tight-fitting shoes: Shoes that are too tight can put pressure on the toenails and cause them to grow inward. This is especially true for shoes that have a narrow toe box.

Trauma to the toe: A stubbed or injured toe can also lead to an ingrown toenail. This is because the trauma can cause the nail to become distorted and grow inward.

What are the symptoms of an ingrown toenail?

The symptoms of an ingrown toenail can vary depending on the severity of the condition. However, some common symptoms include:

Pain: Ingrown toenails can cause pain that ranges from mild to severe. The pain is usually worse when pressure is applied to the toe.

Redness: The skin around the ingrown toenail may become red and inflamed.

Swelling: The toe may also become swollen.

Drainage: In some cases, an ingrown toenail can become infected and drain pus.

How is an ingrown toenail treated?

The treatment for an ingrown toenail will depend on the severity of the condition. In some cases, home treatment may be sufficient. However, in other cases, surgery may be necessary.

Home treatment

There are a number of things you can do at home to treat an ingrown toenail, including:

Soaking your foot in warm water: Soaking your foot in warm water can help to soften the nail and relieve pain.

Applying a topical antibiotic: Applying a topical antibiotic to the affected area can help to prevent infection.

Elevating your foot: Elevating your foot can help to reduce swelling.

Wearing loose-fitting shoes: Wearing loose-fitting shoes can help to reduce pressure on the ingrown toenail.

Surgery

If home treatment is not effective, surgery may be necessary to remove the ingrown toenail. Surgery is usually a simple procedure that can be performed in a doctor's office.

How can I prevent ingrown toenails?

There are a number of things you can do to prevent ingrown toenails, including:

Trim your toenails straight across: When you trim your toenails, be sure to trim them straight across. Avoid cutting them too short or rounding the corners.

Wear loose-fitting shoes: Wear shoes that fit well and have a wide toe box. Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow.

Protect your toes from injury: Wear shoes when you are doing activities that could injure your toes.

See a doctor if you have an ingrown toenail: If you develop an ingrown toenail, see a doctor right away. Early treatment can help to prevent the condition from becoming more severe.

Let's take a closer look at 3 common causes

Ingrown toenails are a common problem that can be caused by a number of factors, including improper nail trimming, wearing tight-fitting shoes, and trauma to the toe. The symptoms of an ingrown toenail can vary depending on the severity of the condition, but some common symptoms include pain, redness, swelling, and drainage. Treatment for an ingrown toenail will depend on the severity of the condition and may include home treatment or surgery. There are a number of things you can do to prevent ingrown toenails, including trimming your toenails straight across, wearing loose-fitting shoes, protecting your toes from injury, and seeing a doctor if you develop an ingrown toenail.

Here are some additional tips for preventing ingrown toenails:

Keep your feet clean and dry. Wash your feet every day and dry them thoroughly, especially between the toes.

Change your socks often. Change your socks at least once a day, or more often if your feet sweat a lot.

Avoid walking barefoot. Walking barefoot can increase your risk of developing an ingrown toenail, especially if you have flat feet or high arches.

See a podiatrist if you have any foot problems. A podiatrist can help you to identify and treat foot problems that can lead to ingrown toenails.

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