Ingowing Toenails
An ingrowing toenail develops when the sides of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin. The nail curls and pierces the skin, which becomes red, swollen and tender.
Symptoms include:
- A build-up of fluid in the area surrounding the toe
- An overgrowth of skin around the affected toe
- Bleeding
- Inflammation of the skin at the end of the toe
- Pain if pressure is placed on the toe
- White or yellow pus coming from the affected area
A number of things can cause an ingrown toenail to develop, including:
- Badly cut toenails – cutting your toenails too short, or cutting the edges, will encourage the skin to fold over your nail and the nail to grow into the skin
- Wearing tight-fitting shoes, socks or tights – this places pressure on the skin around your toenail; the skin may be pierced if it's pressed on to your toenail
- Sweaty feet – if the skin around your toenails is soft, it's easier for your nail to pierce it and embed itself within it
- Injury – for example, stubbing your toe can sometimes cause an ingrown toenail to develop
- Natural shape of the nail – the sides of curved or fan-shaped toenails are more likely to press into the skin surrounding the nail
Treating ingrown toenails
- Keep your feet clean by washing them regularly with soap and water
- Change your socks regularly
- Cut your toenails straight across to stop them digging into the surrounding skin
- Wear comfortable shoes that fit properly
Surgery may be recommended if your toenail doesn't improve, this may involve either:
- Partial nail avulsion – removing part of your toenail
- Total nail avulsion – removing your whole toenail
For further information
Please email us on alistair@ahparfitt-chiropodist.co.uk or to book an appointment call: 01202 528 942
