Ingrown toenail is perhaps one of the most painful ailments caused by such a small body part. It develops when the edge of the nail grows and curves into the soft surrounding skin, causing pain, swelling, redness and sometimes even infection. it can form in the inner or outer corner of the nail.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Recognizing the Symptoms
Step 1. Recognize the difference between ingrown toenail and fungal infection
The first ailment is also known as onychocryptosis and can be caused by a bump on the nail, too tight footwear or socks or even a wrong pedicure; however, it can also derive from a fungus - in this case we speak of onychomycosis - which can cause an abnormal growth of the nail, which becomes in fact ingrown.
- However, a fungal infection, such as athlete's foot (tinea pedis), causes spots and deformations on the nail, which may then appear mottled, bumpy, with white depressions and a chalky texture, or you may notice yellowish residue underneath. the nail itself.
- Eczema or nail psoriasis are other disorders that cause their deformity; if you have these skin conditions, your nails may begin to flake or break, appear thicker or start to pucker. Your doctor may undergo tests to check this.
- If the nail turns black, it could be the consequence of trauma, perhaps due to a heavy object fallen on the nail itself; however, it could also be melanoma or skin cancer. If you have not suffered any trauma that may have damaged your nail, but it is black, see your doctor as soon as possible.
Step 2. Check your finger carefully
See if the skin is red with some swollen and painful areas to the touch, especially around the edges. You may also notice a yellowish fluid leaking, an early sign of infection or inflammation, which is the body's reaction to the irritation of the nail.
Step 3. Examine the nail
You may notice that the skin surrounding the corners is harder than that of the other fingers; the nail may sag near the corner or disappear under the epidermis.
- You may also experience swelling and redness in the surrounding area, as well as pain and tenderness to the touch.
- If there is yellowish material leaking from the nail, a crust may form around the affected area.
Step 4. Check for signs of infection
The ingrown toenail can worsen until it becomes infected or this complication could be caused by your attempts to treat the ailment at home; to understand if it is infected pay attention to the following factors:
- The pain increases and the nail becomes very sensitive and swollen;
- Visible yellowish pus or secretions form under the skin or the nail itself;
- The skin or nail is very hot to the touch;
- Red streaks begin to spread to the other fingers.
Step 5. Seek medical attention if the nail starts to get infected
If you suspect this complication, if you have diabetes or other disorders that cause reduced blood circulation in the lower limbs, you should consult your doctor.
- He can try to lift the nail by inserting a piece of cotton under the edge to prevent it from getting into the skin; it can also provide you with all the instructions to soak the affected finger daily and replace the cotton ball so that the nail stays clean and grows properly.
- An alternative is to remove part of the nail, although this procedure must be done under anesthesia; if you suffer from relapses, you can decide to undergo an operation to remove the entire section of the nail.
Part 2 of 3: Home Treatments
Step 1. Dip your foot in warm water
This remedy helps prevent infection and softens the ingrown nail; when finished, apply two drops of tea tree oil.
- Leave the oil to act and then apply a little Vicks Vaporub or another similar product on the affected area; menthol and camphor help reduce pain and further soften the nail.
- Apply a patch or a piece of gauze to not disperse the product.
Step 2. Use a piece of cotton to lift the nail
The next day dip your finger again for 20 minutes, take some cotton wool and roll it between your fingers to form a "tube" about 1.5 cm long.
- Secure one end of the cotton tube to the top of your finger using tape and, with one hand, lift the corner of the ingrown toenail, moving it outward. Use the fingers of the other hand to bring the free end of the cotton wool roll under the nail until it reaches the other side; at this point the roll should be between the skin and the nail. Make sure you perform all these operations with clean hands.
- Be aware that you may experience pain during the procedure; You may need an assistant to help you slide the cotton tube under the corner of the nail.
Step 3. Replace the cotton wool every day after soaking the foot
Make sure you also apply tea tree oil and menthol-camphor balm to keep the nail soft and avoid infections; if you wish, you can put tea tree oil on the cotton tube.
- Don't use nail files, tweezers, or scissors, as they can break or damage the skin and could lead to an infection.
- Wear white cotton socks and keep your feet clean; colored fabrics can cause more inflammation in an already ailing nail.
Part 3 of 3: Preventing Ingrown Toenails
Step 1. Put on open toe footwear
Choose comfortable shoes without heels or with a low heel. If you work in an environment where toes can be injured, you must use safety shoes.
Step 2. Cut the nails in a straight line
You do not have to follow the curved edge of the fingers, otherwise the nails can become ingrown; also try not to cut them too short nor to leave them too long.
Step 3. Take a foot bath two or three times a week
Keep your feet in hot water for 10-15 minutes; by doing this, the nails soften, become more flexible and it is easier to lift the edges of the nails from the skin, so that they cannot grow into the soft tissues.
