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INGROWN TOENAIL
What is Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail is a condition in which the corner of the toenail grows into the surrounding skin. The result is an increase in tenderness, warmth, redness, and swelling to the affected toe.
Often, an ingrown toenail will puncture the surrounding skin, which allows bacteria to enter the area and cause a local infection known as a “paronychia.” This paronychia is characterized by drainage, pus, and foul odor to the toe.
Ingrown Toenail Prevention
While the cause of some ingrown toenails can be congenital or related to trauma in the area, most cases of ingrown toenails are self inflicted and may be prevented by adhering to the following recommendations:
- Trim your toenail straight across. Do not curve or round your nails.
- Do not cut your toenails too short. The length of your toenails should be even with the tips of your toes. If your toenails are too short, the pressure from your shoes may cause the nail to grow into your skin.
- Wear shoes that fit properly. Do not wear shoes that are too small or tight in the toe area. These tight fitting shoes may place excessive pressure on your toes and cause a toenail to grow into the surrounding kin
