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When Should I Seek Expert Care for My Ingrown Toenail?
Ingrown nails are common, but sometimes they need expert care. If left untreated, the nail continues to grow into the skin, potentially leading to infection, gangrene, or even amputation. Dual board-certified podiatrist and foot and ankle surgeon Jason Armstrong, DPM, provides expert treatment for ingrown toenails and can help prevent complications that may arise.
Not sure whether your ingrown toenail needs medical care? Read on to learn more about the condition and your available treatment options.
An overview of ingrown toenails
An ingrown toenail happens when the side of your nail grows into the surrounding skin. The edge of the nail can embed deeper into the skin if it’s not properly treated, which can lead to issues like:
- Swelling
- Tenderness
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Infection
An active infection in your skin can be painful and get worse without medical intervention. Symptoms of an infection include fever, foul-smelling discharge, and changes in the color and health of your nail.
Causes of ingrown toenails
Ingrown toenails most often occur because of poorly trimmed nails. Cutting your nails too short or at an angle can increase the likelihood of ingrown nail complications.
Some people are genetically predisposed to getting ingrown toenails. You may also have recurrent nail problems due to wearing tight shoes or experiencing toe injuries from minor accidents or sports.
Being proactive about your overall foot care regimen is important for preventing ingrown toenails. Be sure to trim your nails straight across the top and use a clean file to round off the sharp edges.
You should also select footwear that offers ample room for your toes and be mindful of your foot health when playing sports or engaging in other high-impact activities.
When to see a podiatrist for an ingrown toenail
Even with good hygiene, you might still develop an ingrown nail. In the early stages of the condition, you may be able to trim away the nail’s edge before it grows deeper into your skin. It’s helpful to soak your feet for 10 minutes or longer first to help soften the nail for trimming.
If your toe is too painful to treat on your own, or if you suspect you have an infection, be sure to schedule an appointment with Dr. Armstrong. He can trim the ingrown nail during a quick, in-office procedure. He may also need to place a piece of cotton under the nail to help it grow away from the skin.
In some cases, you may need a surgical procedure to remove part or all of the nail. Dr. Armstrong might recommend surgery if you have a severe ingrown toenail or if you’re prone to recurrent ingrown nails.
Diabetics with an ingrown toenail should schedule an appointment as soon as they notice an ingrown toenail forming. Because diabetes can cause serious foot-related complications, Dr. Armstrong needs to evaluate your treatment needs as early as possible so you can get the treatment you need to keep your feet healthy.
Worried about an ingrown toenail? We’re here to help. Call our office in Shenandoah or Humble, TX, today to schedule a visit, or request a consultation online at your convenience.