An ingrown toenail can be a debilitating and painful condition. It is typically caused by a nail that grows into the toe’s skin, causing inflammation and infection. If left untreated, the ingrown toenail can cause permanent damage to the tissue surrounding it. In Bakersfield, CA, you shouldn’t allow this problem to prevail as centers can help. They usually do a thorough examination to get a clear picture of the issue. What’s essential is visiting a reliable specialist in ingrown toenail in Bakersfield. In this blog post, we’ll explore what causes an ingrown toenail to understand better how you should treat it as soon as it appears. We will also discuss some of the most common treatment remedies available in your doctor’s office.
What is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail is a major foot problem in which the corners or sides of the toenail dig into the skin. This may cause pain and irritation and can lead to infection if not treated properly. The toe’s nails often grow at an angle, toward the corner of the nail, instead of growing straight out. The condition may be more common in those who have long or unusually curved nails. It also may be more likely to happen due to an injury, such as stubbing the toe or dropping something on it. The condition may also affect those with extensive nail beds when you’re experiencing pain and discomfort around your nails, an ingrown toenail.
The Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
If you have an ingrown toenail, then the chances are that your big toe is the one that’s affected. You may experience some of these symptoms:
- Redness around the nail area
- Swelling of the tissue surrounding the toe
- Pus draining from the injured area
- Pain when walking or standing for
How to Treat Ingrown Toenails
As with any medical condition, a doctor’s visit is the best place to start to get a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.
Your doctor may also prescribe you antibiotics if there is an infection. In worst cases, the nail bed of your toe might have to be removed altogether to treat the problem completely.
The Causes of Ingrown Toenails
When a toenail grows into the skin, it can cause pain and irritation because bacteria grow underneath the nail. If bacteria are left untreated, they can cause the skin to become red and swollen. You must take care of your feet by washing them regularly and making sure they remain dry. It would help if you never cut your nails too short as this could lead to ingrown toenails or other foot problems.
Prevention of an Ingrown Toenail
People at most risk of developing ingrown toenails may want to consider these tips: Keep your feet dry. Moisture dramatically increases the risk of infection, so make sure you wear shoes that allow your feet to breathe.
Have your nails professionally shaped every six to eight weeks. Look for a podiatrist who will ensure that your nails are cut straight across and not at an angle.
When looking for a reliable doctor to treat your ingrown toenail, find specialists who will provide quality care. They’ll customize the treatment to meet the individual needs as a patient.
