How to Remove Ingrown Tonails
Ingrown toenails can cause redness, pain and swelling. They occur when the corners of the toenails grow inward, pushing on the skin. This condition is a result of uneven or excess pressure on the nail, most commonly from ill-fitting shoes or cutting the toenails the incorrect way. Treatment is important since an ingrown toenail can lead to infection. This is especially true if you have diabetes or other conditions affecting circulation in your foot. You can treat this problem on your own, but in certain instances you might need to go to a doctor.
Instructions
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Soak your foot in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes and place a small piece of cotton under the corner of the nail. You can do this several times a day. Change the cotton after each soaking. This treatment will help separate the nail from the skin, encourage it to grow normally, and relieve pain and swelling.
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File down the middle top section of the nail to thin it out. This will switch the point of stress on the nail bed from the side to the middle and help the nail grow toward the middle of the toe.
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Use a nail-cutter to make a V-shaped notch into the top of the nail. This helps move the edges of the nail together toward the center of the toe.
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See your doctor if your ingrown toenail is especially painful or is producing pus, which is a sign of infection. He can cut away the ingrown section of the nail to relieve pressure on the skin. If your ingrown nail keeps coming back, your doctor might suggest removing the ingrown portion of the nail as well as the tissue underneath to eliminate re-growth of this part of the nail.
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Tips & Warnings
Prevent ingrown toenails by wearing shoes that fit properly. Cut your toenails straight across. Keep your toenails even with the tips of your toes.
