Ingrown Toenail

Also known as onychocryptosis, unguis incarnatus, ingrown nail, an ingrown toenail is a painful condition which occurs when part of the nail (usually a sharp corner) grows into the skin surrounding the nail. People of any age can develop ingrown toenails, although it's much more common in adults. Any toe can be affected, however, ingrown nails occur most often in the big toe. Finger nails can also be affected, but this is much less common than with the toe nails.

Ingrown toenail causes:

• Hereditary-Some people are more prone than others to have toenails that tend to grow inwards. Wide nail plates or curved nail plates can make individuals more susceptible.

• Incorrect cutting-Nails should be cut straight, not curved to reduce the chances of ingrown toenails.

• Unsuitable footwear-That is too tight, especially around the toes.

Ingrown toenail symptoms:

• Pain, inflammation & redness on the affected toe. Pain may worsen when wearing tight footwear or when pressure is applied to the toe.

• Yellowish discharge may ooze from the affected area. This is a sign the toe has become infected.

• Bad odour.

Ingrown toenail treatment:

Mild cases (which haven't become infected) may be treatable at home and would include;

• Soak the affected area in warm water with Epsom salts four times a day. Dry thoroughly and apply antiseptic to the area.

• Gently massage the area with clean hands, this can help to reduce inflammation.

• Do not wear high heels or tight fitting shoes until the condition clears up. Wear open toed sandals where possible.

• Take over the counter pain medications to relieve discomfort.

If the above methods don't result in an improvement, see your doctor or podiatrist.

Severe cases will require medical attention. Treatment may include;

• Surgical removal of a thin part of the nail plate (partial nail avulsion), under local anaesthetic. When removed, some podiatrists apply a chemical to or remove the nail bed/root to prevent re-growth and recurrence of the problem.

• The toe will then be dressed in a bandage or gauze to protect it.

• Your doctor may prescribe oral or topical antibiotics if the toe is infected.

Preventing ingrown toenails:

• Avoid tight fitting footwear.

• When cutting the toenails, cut in a straight line, not in a curve. Don't cut the nails too short.

Also see:

Athlete's Foot, Black Toenail, Bunions, Chilblains, Corns, Cracked Heels, Foot Care, Hammer Toe, Ingrown Toenails, Onychomycosis, Plantar Warts, Smelly Feet

Please note:

The medical articles on this site have not been written by a doctor & should not be considered a replacement for a doctor visit. The articles are provided for informative purposes only.

Always seek immediate medical advice for any problems.

While great care has been made in the creation of these articles, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or omissions on these pages. If in any doubt whatsoever, seek professional medical advice.