subject: Say Goodbye To Pesky Ingrown Toenails Before Summer Begins [print this page] During the winter months we are prone to hiding our feet with shoes and socks. Often times we may even hide our feet because of irritating conditions, such as ingrown toenails. Take charge of your feet now so that you can show them off this summer. An ingrown toenail is a common and painful condition of the toes that occurs when one or both sides of the nail break through and grow into the skin of the toe rather than over it.
As a result, the irritated skin becomes painful, red and swollen. Fortunately, when detected early, an ingrown can generally be treated effectively from home. But when left untreated, an ingrown toenail is prone to infection as bacteria can enter the penetrated skin. Professional treatment from your Brooklyn, NY podiatrist will be necessary to treat the infection.
What are the Causes of Ingrown Toenails?
Poorly trimmed toenails and improper sized footwear are the main causes of ingrown toenails. When nails are cut too short the nail may grow back into the skin, and nails that are rounded rather than cut straight across can dig into the surrounding tissue. Additionally, tight-fitting shoes can cause the toes to be compressed, which can force the nail into the skin.
Other causes of this common condition include damage to the nail caused by trauma, such as a stubbed toe, or recurring fungal infections. It is also not uncommon for ingrown toenails to be inherited.
Care for Ingrown Toenails At Home
Regardless of the cause, understanding how to care for an ingrown toenail can go a long way to prevent painful infections. In its earliest stage, an ingrown toenail can generally be cared for and successfully treated from home. For non-infected nails:
oSoak your foot in warm water several times a day to relieve swelling and soreness
oWash and dry your foot to keep the affected area clean
oWear comfortable footwear with a wide toe box, or sandals when weather permitting
oAvoid cutting the nail as this can make the condition worse
oOver-the-counter medications may temporarily ease the pain, but don't heal the underlying problem
Conservative treatments won't always be successful. When excessive swelling, pain or discharge is present, the toenail is most likely infected and should be treated by your podiatrist. If you have diabetes or nerve damage, avoid home treatment and see your podiatrist in Brooklyn for safe and professional care.
Prevention is Easy
With a few simple precautions, you can easily prevent ingrown toenails:
*Wear proper fitting shoes and socks that allow for adequate toe room
*Trim your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short
*Keep your feet clean and dry as this prevents bacteria-formation
Ingrown toenails are a very common condition of the toes. The key to avoiding ingrown toenails is to prevent them from occurring in the first place. For infected nails, visit your Brooklyn, NY podiatrist as he can administer treatment, such as an oral antibiotic or a minor surgical procedure to stop the pain and remove the infection.
