I’ve discussed already how to prevent ingrown toenails, but what happens if you still have the painful ordeal to go through? Typically an ingrown toenail is caused when the nail begins to grow crooked back into the nail bed. This is most frequent on the big toe. If you have ever been through this experience, you know what a painful process it can be. If you have yet to be burdened with one, knock on wood and hope it never occurs! If it does, there are a few ways to help treat it without needing to visit your doctor for surgical removal.
If you start to notice any swelling, redness, discomfort, or infection, start a treatment right away! Do not wait for it to cure itself. It won’t happen. Early detection and treatment will make a huge difference.
Do you wash your feet everyday? Some statistics show that many people do not give their feet enough attention during their daily washing. Washing your feet – and I mean really scrubbing them – will help to keep any infection at bay.
With an ingrown toenail, you want to keep the nail as soft as possible so it will do less damage. This can be done by soaking your feet. Soak the foot with the problem toe for 15-20 minutes. Adding one a cup or two of Epsom salt will help to pull out the infection.
After you soak your feet, dry them off completely. Help to fight the infection by pouring peroxide over the toe. It will help to kill the bacteria harboring inside the toe and prevent the infection from spreading.
If you choose to do so, you can add some sort of antibacterial ointment – think Neosporin – as an extra precaution. The peroxide should do the trick, but just it will not hurt to add an ointment.
Some say to cover the infected area with a bandage to keep bacteria out, but I think covering it will only take longer for it to heal. You already used the peroxide to kill any bacteria and help fight the infection, as well as used the ointment. So speaking from experience, I have never covered my toe while it was healing. If you choose to do so, there are some band-aids that are made for knuckles that will work exceptionally well for the curves of a toe.
I fully believe in giving your feet some air. Flip flops are a great way to let your feet get air and to help dry out an infection. While shoes are good for protecting your feet, it is wise to allow your infected toe some “breathe” time.
Do not try to cut out an ingrown toenail. It is painful, and can cause more damage then necessary to your toe. Once your toenail has grown out just enough to be in line with your nail bed, cut it carefully. You want to cut it straight across, use nail scissors if you need to for accuracy. Keeping it straight prevents is from possibly growing back into the nail bed!
If all else fails, see a doctor. If the swelling and infection worsen, it is time to see your podiatrist. They will be able to remove the nail at the infection and provide you with some information for preventing them in the future. Usually, if caught early, you can eliminate this step.
Ingrown toenails can occur even if you are taking steps to prevent them. Just keep an eye on your tootsies and make sure you begin treatment immediately if you notice anything funny!
