Saturday Morning with Jack TameSaturday Morning with Jack Tame

Bryan Betty: Ingrown toenails – causes, symptoms, and treatment

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What are ingrown toenails and how do we recognise them?  

  • They’re common, typically the corner or side of toenail grows into the surrounding soft skin.  
  • It often occurs on the big toe, although it can occur on any toe.  
  • It causes pain along the nail edge, redness, swelling, and is tender when touched.  

   

What causes them?  

  • Commonly caused by a badly cut toenail – too short, or rounded edges. 
  • Wearing tight fitting footwear can increase pressure on the nail. 
  • Injuring the toe, such as stubbing it, or recurrent pressure from something like running.  
  • Sweaty feet, genetics causing curved toenail shape, and occasionally medication.  

   

How do you treat them?  

  • Mild, early  
    • Warm saltwater soaks.
    • Lift the nail edge – put some cotton wool under the edge to it lift out.
    • Wear more comfortable footwear, take panadol.
  • Moderate  
    • It can sometime become infected.  
    • Requires antibiotics. 
  • Severe  
    • Requires nail removal under local anaesthetic.  
    • Often needs a podiatrist or GP.  

  

Can you prevent them?  

  • The main thing is to cut nails straight, square across, and not too short. 
  • Avoid tight shoes. 
  • Avoid picking at nails.  
  • Keep feet clean and dry. 

 

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