20360 SW Birch St. Ste 100
Newport Beach, CA 92660
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(949) 833-3406
M, T, W, F: 7:30am-5:00pm
Th: closed
When a toenail is ingrown, it is curved downward or flared out and grows into the skin, usually at the sides of the nail. This irritates the skin, which may create pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the toe.
If an ingrown nail eventually cuts in the skin, bacteria may enter and cause an infection of the adjacent area, which is often marked by increased pain, redness, and swelling. Oftentimes there may be drainage and a bad odor.
Causes of ingrown toenails include:
Sometimes initial treatment for ingrown toenails can be performed at home. If an infection is suspected or for those who have medical conditions that put feet at high risk, such as diabetes, poor circulation, numb feet due to nerve damage, or people with compromised immune systems, we discourage doing home treatments.
If you do not have an infection or any of the above medical conditions, you can soak your foot in warm water and adding Epsom salt. You may gently massage the side of the nail fold to help reduce the inflammation.
The infamous “bathroom surgery” approach is not recommended- regardless of your health status. If your symptoms fail to improve, it’s time to see a podiatrist.
After examining the toe, the doctor will select the treatment best suited for you. If an infection is present, an oral antibiotic may also be prescribed.
Sometimes a minor surgical procedure, often performed in the office, will ease the pain and remove the offending nail. After an injection with a local anesthetic, the doctor removes part of the nail’s side border. Some nails may become ingrown again, requiring surgical removal of the nail root.
Following the nail procedure, a simple bandage will be applied. Most people experience very little pain after the procedure and may resume normal activity the next day or two. If your doctor has prescribed an oral antibiotic, be sure to take all the medication, even if your symptoms have improved.
Many cases of ingrown toenails may be prevented by:
20360 SW Birch Street, Suite 100 Newport Beach, CA 92660
M,T,W,F 7:30 am- 5:00 pm
Thursday closed
Phone: +1 (949) 833-3406
Fax: +1 (949) 833-9955
Email: info@cafai.com