.jpg)
As the nail grows into the skin, the area may become more inflamed and infected. Blood or pus drainage may also be present as the condition worsens, indicating an infection. You may have difficulty walking or wearing shoes due to the discomfort caused by the ingrown nail.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails in Lee's Summit
If you experience signs of an ingrown toenail, it's essential to seek the help from Dr. Joel Foster. First, try some of these at-home remedies:
- Soak the affected toe in warm water and Epsom salt to soften the nail and reduce inflammation.
- Take an over-the-counter pain medication or apply topical antibiotic cream to help with pain and swelling.
- Try to carefully trim the edge of the toe nail that is causing pain.
- Wear roomy shoes or sandals that don’t add pressure to the toes.
However, if the symptoms persist and continue to worsen, don’t ignore the problem. Since an ingrown toenail can be incredibly painful and interfere with your ability to walk or wear shoes, it is essential to seek professional treatment before it leads to more serious complications. An infected ingrown toenail can be dangerous, leading to:
- Non-healing foot wounds
- Cellulitis, a potentially serious bacterial skin infection
- Infection that spreads to the bone or surrounding tissue
- Tissue damage
Dr. Joel Foster will determine the most effective treatment for your condition. In more severe cases, minor surgery is often recommended and may involve removing the section of the toenail growing into the skin. Referred to as a nail avulsion, either partial or complete removal may be necessary. For recurring cases, your podiatrist might also advise nail matrix ablation, which permanently prevents the nail, or a part of it, from growing back.
After surgery, your podiatrist may also prescribe antibiotics to treat any infection.
Ingrown Toenail Prevention Tips
To prevent ingrown toenails from occurring in the first place, it’s always important to practice good foot hygiene. Some prevention tips to consider include:
- Keep your feet clean and dry.
- Avoid wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow for your toes.
- Always cut your toenails properly, trying not to dig into the corners.
- If you have diabetes, do a daily check of your feet for signs of ingrown toenails.
- Consult with your podiatrist at the first sign of a problem before it becomes more serious.
