A lot of people don’t pay much attention to ingrown toenails, especially when they’re not too painful. Many folks think their toenails will fix themselves, but is that really true? Let’s find out.
Ingrown toenails usually don’t heal on their own. While mild cases might seem to get better temporarily, you can’t always rely on them to fix themselves completely. If the pain persists, it’s a good idea to treat the ingrown toenail and see a doctor if necessary.
Here, I’ll share some tips on how to treat ingrown toenails, when to see a doctor, and how to prevent them.
How to Treat Ingrown Toenails:
1. Soak your foot in warm water with Epsom salt for 15-20 minutes to soften the skin and nails. This can reduce inflammation and pain.
2. Gently lift the ingrown edge of the nail with a clean, sanitized tweezer. Be careful not to cause more damage.
3. After lifting the nail, place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the raised corner to help it grow away from the skin.
4. Trim your toenails straight across to avoid rounded edges and ingrowth. Keep them at a moderate length.
5. Apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to the affected area after soaking and drying your foot to prevent infection.
6. Wear shoes that give your toes plenty of room. Avoid tight or poorly fitting footwear and opt for open-toed shoes if possible.
7. Take over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
8. If home remedies don’t help or the condition worsens, see a healthcare professional. They might recommend a minor procedure to remove the ingrown part of the nail or offer further treatment advice.
When to See a Doctor:
1. If you notice signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or discharge, see a doctor immediately. Infections can get worse if not treated.
2. If you have fluid buildup around the nail, it’s a sign of infection that needs prompt medical attention. A doctor can prescribe antibiotics or perform drainage procedures.
3. If you still feel pain after trying home remedies, a doctor can assess the problem and suggest appropriate treatments.
4. If you have peripheral artery disease (PAD), even minor foot issues like ingrown toenails can be risky due to poor circulation. Seek medical help quickly.
5. For recurring ingrown toenails, a doctor can investigate the cause and suggest preventive measures or corrective procedures.
How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails:
– Trim your nails straight across and avoid rounding the edges. Keep them at a moderate length.
– Avoid tight shoes and choose footwear with enough room for your toes.
– Regularly clean and inspect your feet to prevent moisture-related issues.
– Don’t use pointed tools for trimming nails to avoid injuring the surrounding skin.
– Trim your toenails after a bath when they are softer to reduce the chance of splinters.
Ingrown toenails can heal in 2 to 4 days if they’re mild and not infected.
In conclusion, the idea that ingrown toenails can fix themselves isn’t reliable. Ignoring them can lead to more pain and complications. Proper nail care, choosing the right shoes, and seeking professional help when needed can keep your feet healthy.