Ingrown toenails are a common ailment in which the sides of the toenail begin to curve down and grow into the skin of the toe itself. This can then result in pain, swelling, redness, discomfort, and even infection of the effected toenail. While any toenail can become ingrown, the most commonly affected nail is that of the big toe. While ingrown toenails are a common issue, they should be taken seriously and treated by a doctor before the issue worsens. If you have an ingrown toenail and would like to know more about them, this article will go over common causes of ingrown toenails, common treatments, and ways in which you can prevent an ingrown toenail from returning or forming.
Causes
Many issues can cause ingrown toenails to form. One common factor that puts certain people at an increased risk of their toenails becoming ingrown in heredity; genes make these individuals more likely to have an ingrown toenail. Another common cause of ingrown toenails is improper trimming. Cutting one’s nails too short, and/or cutting them at an angle rather than straight across, can encourage the skin next to the nail to fold over the nail. A final common cause of ingrown toenails is wearing improperly sized footwear. Wearing socks or shoes that are too tight or too short can cause your toenails to become ingrown. Discussing your medical history, the types of footwear you commonly wear, and your trimming habits with your doctor can help you to determine what may have caused the ingrown toenail, and it can also help you to prevent the problem in the future.
Treatment Options
While there are many over-the-counter treatments for ingrown toenails, as well as online guides for in-home remedies, it is often debated as to whether these treatments are effective or safe. Thusly, it is generally best to have your doctor take care of your ingrown toenail. Depending on the severity of your condition, your doctor may attempt to lift the nail away from the skin it has been growing into, or it may be determined that your nail needs to be removed entirely in order for the problem to be corrected.
It is important for any individual, whether they have an ingrown toenail or not, to be aware of this condition and what causes it so that they can prevent it from happening to them in the future. Contact us to learn more about ingrown toenails as well as to find out about having your ingrown toenail treated.
