What Are the Treatments for Ingrown Toenails?

Ingrown toenails most often occur when a person trims his nails too short on the sides of the nail bed. Trimming your toenails too short or in a curved manner can cause the nail to curl down and start digging into your skin. Ingrown toenails can also be caused by wearing shoes that are too small for your feet. Ingrown toenails will feel sore and become swollen. To prevent infection and ease your discomfort, you will want to find treatments for the condition.

Identification

To identify an ingrown toenail, a person will have to examine the nail bed. If it's ingrown, the sides of the nail will grow over the edges of the nail. If left untreated, the nail will continue to grow abnormally and into the skin of the toes. Before it becomes infected, it may just look swollen and feel tender. If infection occurs, severe pain and discharge will likely occur.

Foot Bath

It is important to start at-home treatment methods as soon as possible to prevent infection. Use a foot bath to soak your foot in warm water and a sprinkle of salt. Soak your foot at least three times daily and dry the foot completely after the bath. If possible, wear open-toed shoes until the condition improves.

Cotton Padding

Helping the toenail resume normal growth can be done at home to treat an ingrown toenail. Lift up the affected toenail and slide a small amount of cotton underneath it. Change the cotton each time you use the foot bath.

Antibiotics

An infected ingrown toenail will require a visit to a physician. He may prescribe antibiotics as a way to treat the condition. An infected toenail may need to be completely or partially removed. During the procedure, your toe is numbed, and the doctor cuts away the toenail.

Prevention/Solution

Wear comfortable-fitting shoes to prevent ingrown toenails. Socks should permit adequate room for the toes. When you cut your toenails, trim them in a straight line with a sharpened nail trimmer. Avoid rounding the edges, since this can promote improper nail growth.