Have you ever had experience with an ingrown toe nail? I did and I know that it really hurts! Here are some important points for how to prevent, cure and avoid having it.

What is an ingrown toe nail?
It is a toe nail where it’s front corners grow inwards, cutting into the surrounding skin and the first toe is most commonly involved. It’s also called Unguis Incarnatus. This condition only occurs with toe nails, and not finger nails.

How does it form?
The nail bed is compressed by the nail and then the nail enters the cuticle. The keratinaceous material of the nail in the flesh of the toe sets up a foreign body reaction.

How will you know if you have one?
-You’ll feel pain at the corners of the nail.
-Inflammation where the corner of the nail digs into the skin

How long will it last?
It will last until you treat it.

Why/How do we acquire it?
-Wearing shoes that are too tight can cause it.
-You cut off the corners of the nail.
-You dig down the sides of your nails in order to remove dead skin.
-You might have bacterial infection.

How can we treat it at home?
-You can tuck pieces of gauze soaked in alcohol beneath the corners of the infected nail two times a day.
-Cut a portion on the middle of the top edge of the nail. It will lessen the pressure of the ingrowing sides of the nail.

How will I know when to consult a doctor?
You should consult a doctor when the suggested home treatments don’t work and/or if the case worsens. Professional treatments are also necessary if you experience any discharge and/or bleeding from the infected nail.

What will the doctor do?
They can prescribe you with an antiseptic ointment or antibiotic. And if your toenail can’t be treated with those medications anymore, he can perform a minor operation on your nail(s).

How do I prevent it?
-Don’t wear tight-fitting shoes.
-Cut your toenails straight across, not including the sides.
-Do not dig down the sides of toenails to remove dead skin.