Ingrown Toenail | Causes | Prevention | Treatment
Causes, Symptoms, and Care
Ingrown toenails, a common and painful ailment, occur when the edge of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. Although the big toe is a frequent victim, any toe can be affected. Recognisable signs of ingrown toenails encompass redness, swelling, tenderness, pain, and the development of hypergranulation tissue, with the potential for infection if left unattended.
Medically termed Onychocryptosis, ingrown toenails emerge when the nail penetrates the adjacent skin, usually due to improper toenail cutting or wearing tight-fitting shoes. Contributing factors include genetics, toe trauma, and fungal infections. Individuals with curved or thick nails, diabetes, or poor circulation are particularly prone to ingrown toenails.
Common Causes of Ingrown Toenails:
- Improper Toenail Cutting: Trimming nails too short or not cutting them straight across can encourage ingrown toenails
- Tight-Fitting Shoes: Wearing shoes that squeeze the toes or put excessive pressure on the nails can contribute to ingrown toenails
- Genetics: Some people may inherit a tendency to develop ingrown toenails
- Toe Trauma: Injuries to the toe, such as stubbing or dropping something on it, can increase the risk of ingrown toenails
- Fungal Infections: Fungal infections affecting the toenails can contribute to their irregular growth and increase the likelihood of ingrown toenails
While ingrown toenails are generally not severe, neglecting them can lead to infections. Infections present with redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area. In advanced cases, the infection may spread to other parts of the foot or even the body. Seeking prompt medical attention is crucial if infection is suspected. An untreated ingrown toenail can even infect the underlying bone, leading to a severe bone infection. Consulting with a podiatrist is imperative for proper treatment and prevention of complications arising from ingrown toenails. In some cases, antibiotics and nail surgery may be necessary for comprehensive care.
