Ingrown toenail

What is an Ingrown Toenail ?

An ingrown toenail (onychocryptosis) occurs when the nail edge (on the sides) pokes and grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, redness,bleeding and potential infection. There is usually a change in the nail curvature which leads to the pinching of the skin underneath it. 

What causes or leads to Ingrown toenail?

It most commonly affects the big toe 

• cutting nails too short or rounding the edges, 
• wearing tight or ill-fitting shoes,
• toe injuries, 
• excessive sweating, 
• fungal infections, and
• genetic factors all contribute to the nail in-growth.

Initially it presents with pain, redness, and swelling at the nail edge. As the condition worsens, it may lead to pus formation, infection, and overgrowth of skin tissue(granulation tissue) around the affected nail. Severe cases can cause difficulty in walking and chronic discomfort.

What is the treatment for Ingrown nails?

Mild cases can be managed at home by soaking the foot in warm salt water, keeping the area clean, applying antibiotic/ anti-inflammatory ointments, and wearing comfortable shoes. 

A cotton wisp inserted between the nail and the underlying skin -when left overnight can relieve the pain to a considerable extent. 

Surgical

In moderate to severe cases, 

• partial nail removal,
• surgical nail matrix removal and
• repairing the lateral nail fold will be required.

 Preventive measures include trimming nails straight across, avoiding tight shoes, and maintaining proper foot hygiene.