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If not caught early on, an ingrown toenail can require a surgical solution. Get the scoop on how to treat an ingrown toenail.
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Introduction
- Symptoms of an ingrown toenail can range from simple irritation to extreme pain. If the nail has not become infected, home treatment may be appropriate. Otherwise, a trip to the doctor, or even the surgeon, may be in order.
Step 1: Determine Whether the Nail is Infected
- Is it very swollen?
- Is it very painful?
- Is there pus, or visible discharge?
- If it is not infected, you can try to treat if yourself:
Step 2: Try Home Treatment
- Soak your foot in warm water, as many as three to four times per day. Add Epsom salts to the water if you like.
- Dry the foot, and keep it dry between soakings.
- Put on shoes with lots of toe room. You might try sandals if weather permits.
- Take Advil or Tylenol to reduce pain.
- If the condition persists for more than three days, see a doctor.
- If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or any other condition that makes your feet especially vulnerable, skip home treatment and seek medical advice.
Step 3: Seek Medical/Surgical Treatment
If your nail is infected, your doctor may prescribe- Antibiotics
- Surgery
- Your condition may require
- Removing part of the nail
- Removing all of the nail
- Removing a section of the nail bed
- Removing or destroying the nail root (This may be accomplished non-surgically.)
- Your condition may require
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