Ingrown Toenail

An ingrown nail presses into the skin beside it. This can irritate the toe and sometimes cause infection.

Why it happens
Nails cut too short, snug shoes, repeated toe pressure or an injury can contribute. Some people inherit a curved nail shape.

 What you may notice
Pain, redness, swelling or warmth along the nail edge. Drainage or odor may mean infection.

 How infection changes the plan
An ingrown nail can occur on any toe, although the big toe is common. Pus, increasing pain or swelling may mean infection. Fever or chills with a painful toe need prompt medical advice. Antibiotics may be needed, but the nail itself may also need treatment.

Treatment and what to expect
The clinician may numb the toe and remove the painful nail edge. For repeated problems, treating the nail root may help prevent regrowth. Antibiotics may be prescribed for infection. Do not place cotton under the nail or try to pull the nail out. These steps can injure the skin. Tell the office if the same edge keeps growing inward, even after earlier treatment.

 When to call
Call promptly for drainage, spreading redness or worsening swelling. Get office advice before home care if you have diabetes, poor circulation or numbness.

Your next steps
● Wear shoes that leave room around the toes.
● For prevention, trim nails straight across without cutting them very short. Do not dig into the corners or cut a notch in the nail.
● After a procedure, follow the office's separate bandage and activity instructions.

 Caring for an irritated toe
Keep the toe clean and dry and avoid tight shoes. Do not pick at the skin or try to cut out an edge that is already embedded.

 Ask whether soaking is appropriate for you and which pain medicine is safe. If you have diabetes, get professional advice before trying home treatment.

What an office procedure may involve
The podiatrist may remove part or, in some cases, all of the nail after numbing the toe. Ask what type of nail removal is planned and whether regrowth is expected. Before leaving, confirm how to care for the dressing and when to call. Preventive straight-across trimming is for routine care, not digging out an active ingrown edge.