Treating an Infected Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows too closely to the skin and presses against it. Ingrown nails can cause swelling, redness, pain and discomfort. Left untreated, an ingrown toenail could become infected and lead to further problems. Dr. Jeff Harsch, the board-certified podiatrist at the Foot & Ankle Clinic in Lees Summit, MO, treats infected ingrown toenails. 

Causes of Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails most commonly affect the nails on the big toes, although it is possible for the any toenail to become ingrown. Ingrown toenails often have curved edges and the sides press against the skin on the toe. The pressure of the nail on the skin can lead to swelling and redness. It can also be painful.

There are several factors that can lead to a toenail becoming ingrown, such as:  

• A toe injury 
• Fungal infections 
• Constant pressure on the toes
• Improper trimming of the toenails 
• Wearing shoes that are extremely tight or narrow 
• Wearing tight-fitting socks
• Having curved toenails
• Heredity  

It is possible to prevent ingrown toenails or reduce the risk of developing them by taking certain steps. Trimming the toenails straight across and not too short helps prevent nails from becoming ingrown. Keeping the feet clean and dry prevents fungal infections that can lead to ingrown nails. However, if a fungal infection does develop it should be treated right away to reduce the risk of an ingrown toenail. Finally, wearing properly fitting shoes and socks that are not too tight helps prevent ingrown toenails. 

Treatment for Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails should be treated promptly to prevent further problems. It is especially crucial that infected ingrown toenails be treated right away to prevent the infection from spreading and causing other issues. We treat infected ingrown toenails at our Lees Summit, MO, foot and ankle clinic. The doctor will develop an individualized treatment plan tailored to your needs.

Treatment will include prescribing medication to clear up the infection. Options include applying an anti-fungal ointment or lotion directly on the affected nail or taking an oral antibiotic to treat the infection. Over-the-counter pain medication can be used to minimize pain or discomfort while the infected toenail is healing. Once the infection is cleared, the ingrown nail can be corrected. 

One method of treating an ingrown toenail after the infection is cleared is temporary removal of the entire nail so that it can grow back correctly. This also provides relief from pain and discomfort. Another option is to remove a thin strip along the edge of the ingrown toenail and use a laser to kill the nail at the root. This prevents the thin strip of nail from growing back so it cannot become ingrown again. 

Infected ingrown toenails should be treated as soon as possible to prevent further complications. For the treatment of an infected ingrown toenail in Lees Summit, MO, schedule an appointment with Dr. Harsch by calling the Foot & Ankle Clinic at (816) 525-2405.