Ingrown toenails are the ones that curve and dig into the toe skin. If you have such a problem, it is important to take care of them because they can cause a lot of pain. Proper care of your feet will ensure that the ingrown toenails will not cause grave and severe infection.
The ingrown toenail will occur the moment the toenail starts growth towards the skin of the toes while they should go out straight and above the skin. At times the skin can cover the toenail sides and hence can make the nail to be embedded in the skin. It is a problem that is associated with big feets though it can occur in any foot.
An ingrown nail can be easily noticed as the skin will be seen covering the toenail. Eventually, the toe becomes swollen, red and painful. If the skin us touched it will feel hard and tight. If there is an infection, pus may be noticeable from the meeting point of the skin and nails. If the problem persist, your feet might require surgery rather care for them.
Causes of ingrown toenails
There are different causes of ingrown toenails. As noted by C.Ford who serves as the director of the podiatric residency program, cutting the toenails in the wrong way can be the primary cause of ingrown toenails. There is another reason such as trauma, wearing the wrong shoes and genetic factors.
The following are some causes of ingrown toenails:
- Toes that are small hence cannot accommodate the growth of nails
- Toe damage because an injury from running or hitting a hard object
- Cutting nails until they are too short
- Little shoes that squeeze the toes
Risks that can be associated with ingrown toenails
If you were born having toes that are large, then there is a high danger of developing ingrown toenails. Therefore, when cutting your nails, it important you be very keen and careful to avoid causing damage which can lead to ingrown toenails. Cut the nails carefully in a straight line hence preventing the growth of nails at the sides. Also, make sure you wear shoes with comfort since shoes that cramp your toes can increase chances of ingrown toenails.
Ingrown toenails diagnosis
If you think that you have ingrown toenails, it is essential that you visit a podiatrist for check up. He/She will be in a position to help you know what the cause is and guide you on the proper treatment. If the problem is because of putting on shoes that are not right for your feet, avoid the shoes and look for shoes of your size. He/she will also help you in the treatment of the problem. The podiatrist will guide you on the proper way of dealing with the problem such as the use of antibiotics and good washing using warm foot soaks. If you establish the leading cause of ingrown toenail ensure that you handle it correctly to prevent pain that is associated with ingrown toenails.
