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Ingrown Nail

WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW

An ingrown nail develops when the sharp edge of a fingernail or toenail grows into the skin next to it. The big toenail is most often affected. With proper care, the nail may return to normal in 1 to 2 weeks.

Causes

The usual culprits are tight-fitting shoes that force a nail into the skin. Incorrectly trimmed toenails can also cause the problem.

Signs/Symptoms

First, you may feel tenderness and see swelling as the nail pushes on the skin. Once the nail pierces the skin, you will see redness and more swelling, and you may feel sharp pain. With time, skin will grow over the nail.

Care

If a nail has been ingrown for a long time, the doctor may have to burn away the overgrown skin. If that does not work, you may require surgery; however, the need for surgery is fairly rare.

WHAT YOU SHOULD DO

  • If the problem has developed recently, you can lift the edge of the nail away from the sore skin by wedging a small piece of cotton under the corner of the nail.
  • Soak the whole foot or hand in warm water for 20 minutes every day, 2 to 3 times a day. If the nail is infected you may need to soak it in an antibiotic liquid.
  • Keep the nail area clean and dry.
  • To prevent the problem in the future, cut nails straight across. Do not round them with a file or cut them in a semicircle.
  • Wear shoes that fit well.

Call Your Doctor If...

  • The toe or finger is not better in 7 days.
  • Pain, redness, or swelling gets worse, or the wound feels warm.
  • You develop a high temperature.
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