An ingrown toenail is a foot condition that develops when the corner of the toenail starts growing down into the skin. It most often affects the big toe, though it can affect other toes too. It typically happens when nails are cut by rounding or tapering the corners, so that the nail curves with the shape of the toe and grows into the surrounding skin.
Ingrown toenails are common and, in general, pose no serious health risk. Anyone can develop one, but people at higher risk include adolescents, athletes, and individuals with diabetes, poor blood circulation, severe nerve damage in the leg or foot, or a nail infection.
When should I see a doctor?
If your ingrown toenail does not improve after a couple of days, you should visit a dermatologist. A consultation is recommended in the following cases:
- You experience severe discomfort from the toenail, accompanied by pus and inflammation.
- The toe is not getting better even after trying home remedies.
- The condition of the toe is getting worse.
- Pain in the toe is accompanied by fever.
- A condition such as diabetes, or any other disease causing poor blood circulation, is present.
How is an ingrown toenail treated?
Depending on the severity of your condition and other factors, the dermatologist may recommend the following treatment options.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics are the first line of treatment for ingrown toenails. Infections from this condition can spread to other areas of the body and make it worse. If you suspect an infection, book an appointment with a dermatologist; they will drain the infection and prescribe antibiotics.
Surgical nail removal
Surgical removal is recommended when antibiotics do not resolve the problem. The procedure involves removing part or all of the toenail, and is used when the toenail is severely inflamed or infected. The type of surgery recommended depends on several factors, including the severity of the ingrown toenail, your overall health, and personal preference. The procedure takes about 10 minutes and is performed under a local anaesthetic. Common approaches include:
- Nail avulsion: removal of the entire toenail.
- Wedge excision: removal of the part of the toenail growing into the skin, along with the tissue in the corner from which that part of the nail grows.
- Nail-bed ablation: removal of part or all of the toenail, followed by application of a chemical to the area of tissue where the toenail grows.
- Electrocautery: heat from an electric current is used to remove harmful tissue while preserving the health of the toe.
- Zadek's procedure: for severe cases, the entire toenail is removed and the tissue where the toenail grows is cut away, stopping it from growing back.
Is the result long-lasting?
The surgical approach to correcting an ingrown toenail offers a long-term result. To avoid further pain and discomfort, be careful when cutting your nails and wear comfortable footwear. At Derma Essence, treatment is led by Dr. Reena Sharma (MD Dermatology). For related concerns, see nail disorders or fungal infection.
Book a consultation for a personalised assessment.
