Ingrown toenails occur when the edges or corners of the toenail grow into the surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, and redness. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help manage ingrown toenails:
Do’s:
- Soak the affected toe in warm water for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times per day.
- Wear comfortable shoes with a wide toe box to prevent pressure on the toes.
- Cut toenails straight across to prevent them from growing into the skin.
- Use sterile instruments to trim toenails.
- Use over-the-counter pain relievers to manage pain and discomfort.
Don’ts:
- Don’t cut toenails too short or round the edges, as this can increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Avoid tight-fitting shoes or high heels, which can put pressure on the toes and exacerbate ingrown toenails.
- Don’t try to dig out the ingrown toenail yourself, as this can lead to infection.
- Don’t ignore signs of infection, such as increased pain, redness, and pus drainage.
- Don’t wait too long to seek medical attention if home remedies are not effective in managing symptoms.
It is important to seek medical attention if the ingrown toenail becomes infected, or if symptoms do not improve with home remedies. A healthcare provider may recommend antibiotics or surgery to remove the ingrown toenail and prevent further complications.