If not caught early on, an ingrown toenail can require a surgical solution. Get the scoop on how to treat an ingrown toenail.

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before using the information presented here.

• 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.

1. Is it very swollen?
2. Is it very painful?
3. Is there pus, or visible discharge?

• If it is not infected, you can try to treat if yourself:

(Creative Commons photo by Susan Boloto)

1. Soak your foot in warm water, as many as three to four times per day. Add Epsom salts to the water if you like.
2. Dry the foot, and keep it dry between soakings.
3. Put on shoes with lots of toe room. You might try sandals if weather permits.
4. 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.

If your nail is infected, your doctor may prescribe

1. Antibiotics
2. Surgery
   1. Your condition may require
      1. Removing part of the nail
      2. Removing all of the nail
      3. Removing a section of the nail bed
      4. Removing or destroying the nail root (This may be accomplished non-surgically.)

A tendency toward ingrown toenails may be hereditary. Otherwise, cutting your nails straight across and avoiding tight footwear can help prevent the condition. Your doctor is always the best source of information for preventing and treating an ingrown toenail.

• Introduction
• Step 1: Determine Whether the Nail is Infected
• Step 2: Try Home Treatment
• Step 3: Seek Medical/Surgical Treatment
• Conclusion