In most cases, people tend to assume that an ingrown toenail does not require any medical attention, not until it becomes uncomfortable and starts causing you pain. In this case, you are advised to seek medical attention from an experienced podiatrist for further evaluation. That is why ingrown toenail in Midtown East is treated by a board of certified specialists. They help you alleviate any discomfort and pain from ingrown toenails, manage and treat infections, and prevent them from recurring.

What is an ingrown toenail?

Generally, a toenail is ingrown when its side or corner grows into the surrounding skin. Mainly, ingrown toenails usually affect the big toe. They then cause swelling, pain, redness, and even infection. It is essential to note that the most known cause of ingrown toenails is improper grooming. Therefore, to prevent having ingrown toenails, you must always ensure you cut your toenails straight. Similarly, if your toenails are too short or have a jagged or rounded end, they may become ingrown.

Additionally, these toenails can also develop following an injury. They grow in response to excess pressure being exerted on your big toe, especially if you put on very tight shoes or socks. However, this is a minor condition and is very treatable even in the comfort of your home. But if you have an ingrown toenail that causes you pain and appears infected, it’s better to seek medical advice.

Do I need a doctor to treat my ingrown toenail?

Typically, one can conclude how severe an ingrown toenail is by how many problems it causes. Therefore, if the symptoms and discomforts are minor, they are supposed to respond to home care like applying antibiotic ointment to the area, soaking your feet in warm water, and bandaging the area. Since ingrown toenails can be irritated by closed shoes, you are always advised to wear open-toe shoes like sandals.

You are required to book an appointment if you have infected ingrown toenails. One can tell that their toenail is infected if pus is coming out or if you experience any redness, pain, or swelling. The doctor can treat the infected ingrown toenail using antibiotics. However, in sporadic cases, the care provider might also recommend surgery to amputate the affected part of your nail.

Additionally, if you suffer from any circulatory system condition or diabetes, you are advised to seek a medical condition. If you have diabetes, any wounds or cuts like ingrown toenails predispose you to infections that might cause severe complications. However, if they are managed and treated early, they prevent these complications.

How to prevent ingrown toenails?

Even though ingrown toenails can be pretty annoying, they are recurrent but can be prevented. You are supposed to practice good foot hygiene and care, including wearing socks and shoes that are not tight, trimming your toenails straight, letting your feet breathe by wearing open shoes, and cleaning your toes and feet daily.

If you have ingrown toes, call or visit Precision Footcare today and receive your treatment before developing further complications. The health care providers will also educate you on various ways of preventing ingrown toes from developing, including good foot hygiene and care.