What is ingrown toenail? – An ingrown toenail is a toenail that grows into the surrounding skin around the nailbed. This occurs when the corner of a toenail is too rounded that is buries itself in the skin surrounding it as it grows out. It often occurs after cutting the nail and tapering its corners to take the shape of the toe.  It more commonly affects the big toe than others, possibly because of its shape.

What are the causes of ingrown toenail?

Causes of ingrown toenail include:

1. The shape of toes
2. Cutting nail too short or rounded
3. Tearing the corner of the nail
4. Poorly fitting shoes
5. Repeated trauma to toes

How does an ingrown toenail manifest?

The following symptoms either relate directly to the ingrown nail or its complications such as infection:

1. Swelling and hardness of the skin around the nail
2. Redness around the swelling surrounding the toenail
3. Pain from the swelling around toenail
4. Pus coming out of the toe

What is the treatment for ingrown toenail?

The treatment for ingrown toenail is majorly to redirect the nail in the path of normal growth, in uncomplicated cases. Those complicated by infections need antibiotic treatment while the toes are kept neat and dry. Attempts at redirecting the path of nail growth may commence after treating the infection. The following steps may be helpful in treatment of ingrown toenail:

1. Gently lift the edges of the nail from the skin and place a clean piece of cotton in-between. This should be replaced daily to avoid infection. This helps in directing the growth of the nail above the skin edges.
2. In those with signs of infection, soak the foot in warm water mixed with soap twice a day, wash and keep the foot dry thereafter.
3. There may be need for antibiotics in tablet or cream form.
4. Pain relievers may be necessary.
5. Avoid tight-fitting shoes
6. Surgery may be necessary to remove part or all the nail if simple remedies fail. This requires the services of a healthcare provider.

How can ingrown toenail be prevented?

The following steps may help to prevent ingrown nail:

1. Do not tear your nail. This removes the boundary between the nail and toe.
2. Do not trim your nail round the corners of the nail. The rounded edge directs the nail into the skin of the toe. Rather cut the nail across the top border of the toe.
3. Wear appropriate shoes, not too tight around the toes.
4. Avoid repeated trauma to the toes.