Ingrown Toenail
This condition happens when the edge of a toenail grows into the nearby skin, leading to swelling and pain from an infection (Paronychia). To prevent this, it’s important to understand what causes it. Common causes include cutting your nails incorrectly, wearing tight shoes, and genetic factors.
What are the Common Causes?
Numbness in the feet and hands in a “stocking-glove” distribution
Constant pain in the extremities
Abnormal or altered sensation in hands or feet
Loss of balance
What are the Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails?
After understanding the causes of ingrown toenails, it’s important to recognize the symptoms so you can seek treatment promptly. Common signs of an ingrown toenail include:
Curved Nail Edge:
The edge of the nail bends and grows into the surrounding skin.
Bleeding:
The area around the ingrown toenail may bleed.
Granuloma Formation:
Sometimes, a small, red growth called a pyogenic granuloma may develop on the side of the nail where it’s ingrown.
Pain and Inflammation:
The sides of the toenail become painful, red, and swollen, often feeling warm to the touch. In some cases, pus may be present.
Footwear Discomfort:
Wearing closed shoes can make the pain worse due to the pressure on the ingrown nail.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment and Prevention
Ingrown toenails often occur due to improper nail trimming or changes in toenail shape. People with highly curved or wide toenails are especially prone to this problem. Without proper care, ingrown toenails can keep coming back, leading to ongoing discomfort.
Ingrown toenails often occur due to improper nail trimming or changes in toenail shape. People with highly curved or wide toenails are especially prone to this problem. Without proper care, ingrown toenails can keep coming back, leading to ongoing discomfort.
Nail Trauma:
Injuries like stubbing your toe or getting it stepped on can damage the nail, causing it to grow into the skin. Repeated minor injuries can also worsen the issue, leading to chronic ingrown toenails.
Improper Trimming:
Cutting toenails in a curved shape instead of straight across can cause them to grow into the surrounding skin, increasing the risk of ingrown toenails.
Frequent Pedicures:
Regular pedicures, especially those involving aggressive nail trimming or shaping, can change the natural growth pattern of the nails, increasing the likelihood of ingrown toenails.
Tight Footwear:
Wearing shoes that squeeze the toes together puts pressure on the toenails, which can cause them to grow into the skin. This is common with narrow or tight shoes.
Nail Picking:
Picking at your toenails can damage the nail bed and surrounding skin, making it easier for the nail to grow abnormally and become ingrown.
Types of Ingrown Toenail Removal Surgery
If trying different treatments and medications doesn’t work, you might need surgery to fix an ingrown toenail. Here are the common types of surgery:
Partial Nail Removal:
This involves taking out a small part of the toenail, usually from the side or corner.
Nail Matrix Removal:
Part of the nail’s growth area is taken out, often along with a partial nail removal. This is for severe or recurring cases.
Total Nail Removal:
The whole toenail is removed, which is done when the nail is severely infected or damaged.
No matter which surgery you have, it’s important to follow the aftercare instructions to ensure proper healing and avoid complications.
In Singapore, there are several treatment options for ingrown toenails, ranging from temporary relief to long-term solutions. It’s important to consider the causes and potential for recurrence when choosing the best treatment.
Here are some effective options:
Nail Spike Trim:
Offers short-term relief from pain.
Nail Bracing:
Helps to correct the way the nail grows.
Antiseptic Foot Soak:
Used to prevent infections.
Wound Care:
Necessary if there is bleeding or discharge.
Custom Foot Orthotics:
Provides support and reduces pressure on the toenails.
Antibiotics:
Can be prescribed by a doctor if needed.
If you’ve had ingrown toenails happen often, here are some tips to help prevent them:
Avoid Tight Shoes:
Don’t wear shoes that squeeze your toes.
File Sharp Edges:
Smooth out any sharp edges with a nail file after trimming.
Cut Nails Straight Across:
Trim your nails straight across rather than curved.
In Singapore, there are several treatment options for ingrown toenails, ranging from temporary relief to long-term solutions. It’s important to consider the causes and potential for recurrence when choosing the best treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How An Ingrown Toenails Diagnosed?
Diagnosing an ingrown toenail involves a thorough check-up by a podiatrist. They will look for signs like redness, swelling, and tenderness around the nail and ask about your symptoms, medical history, and any activities that might have hurt the toenail. This helps them understand what’s causing the problem and how severe it is. A detailed evaluation ensures an accurate diagnosis and helps create a treatment plan that fits your needs.
What Are The Symptoms Of An Infected Ingrown Toenail?
If an ingrown toenail becomes infected, it can be very uncomfortable and needs quick attention. Symptoms of an infected ingrown toenail include:
- Skin Overgrowth: The skin may grow over the edge of the nail, trapping bacteria and leading to an infection.
- Redness and Warmth: The skin around the toenail might become red and warm, showing inflammation and infection.
- Swelling: The toe can become swollen and hard as the infection gets worse.
- Discharge: You might notice liquid or pus oozing from around the toenail, a clear sign of infection.
- Pain: Pain usually increases, especially when pressure is applied or while wearing shoes.
If you have these symptoms, it’s important to see a podiatrist to stop the infection from getting worse.
What Is A Nail Avulsion Procedure?
Nail avulsion is a surgical option for severe or recurring ingrown toenails. It involves removing part or all of the toenail to relieve pain and prevent more issues. There are two main types:
- Partial Nail Removal: Only the problematic part of the toenail is removed, usually from the side or corner. This may be combined with removing a small part of the nail’s growth area to prevent regrowth in that spot.
- Total Nail Removal: The entire toenail is taken off if it’s badly infected or damaged, or if other treatments haven’t worked.
Nail avulsion is done under local anesthesia and is generally a minor surgery. Following post-surgery care is crucial for healing and to avoid complications.
Is It Okay To Dig Out An Ingrown Toenail Myself?
Trying to dig out an ingrown toenail yourself is not recommended. It can lead to:
- Infection: Using non-sterile tools can introduce bacteria and cause an infection.
- Increased Pain: Doing it yourself can be very painful and might make the problem worse.
- Damage: You could hurt the surrounding skin and nail bed, worsening the condition.
It’s best to let a podiatrist handle the ingrown toenail. They can safely and effectively treat it and help prevent further issues.
What Are The Things To Take Note Of After An Ingrown Toenail Surgery?
After surgery for an ingrown toenail, proper care is crucial for healing and avoiding complications. Here’s what to do:
- Rest and Elevate: Keep your foot raised to reduce swelling and avoid too much activity.
- Avoid High-Impact Activities: Stay away from activities that put pressure on your toe.
- Keep It Clean: Follow your podiatrist’s instructions for cleaning and dressing the wound.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Opt for open-toed shoes or loose-fitting shoes to avoid putting pressure on the toe.
- Be Cautious: Avoid bumping or injuring your toe to prevent further damage.
- Monitor Symptoms: If you notice increased pain, redness, swelling, or discharge, contact your podiatrist immediately.
- Follow Up: Go to any follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns.
Following these steps will help you recover smoothly after ingrown toenail surgery.
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