Ingrown toenails can quickly progress from a nagging discomfort to a very serious problem, especially if the condition is not treated properly. It's rarely advised that you try to care for ingrown toenails on your own, especially if you suffer from an underlying condition, like diabetes, instead, make sure to consult with your Williamsburg and Hampton, VA, podiatrists, Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowksi, and Dr. Shruti Vyas of Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists.
Painful Condition
In its early stages, an ingrown toenail can cause tenderness as the nail pushes against adjacent skin. As the condition progresses your skin may become swollen and fluid can begin building up around the toe. Pain is usually moderate to severe at this stage, and there may be bleeding, and redness, and skin may begin to grow around the affected toenail.
Common Causes and Prevention Tips
There are a lot of factors that can increase your risk of developing an ingrown toenail, but there are often steps you can take to reduce it.
If you have a genetic predisposition to ingrown toenails your risk will certainly be higher, but it just means that you need to be extra careful in taking precautions.
Such as when cutting your toenails, cutting them too short or in a manner that's too curved makes ingrown toenails more likely to develop. Instead, cut them straight across and have someone help you cut them regularly if you can't do it on your own.
Also, make sure to wear shoes that fit properly, do not create a lot of pressure points, and don't bunch your toes together.
If you practice sports or work in an industrial setting, you must wear the appropriate footwear that will protect your feet from trauma. Foot injuries that damage the toenail can increase your risk of developing the condition.
Treatment for Ingrown Toenails in Williamsburg and Hampton, VA
The severity of the ingrown toenail will help determine the best treatment for your needs. If it's a severe or recurring condition, or if your toenail has thickened over time, then your doctor may perform either a partial or a complete toenail removal. It can take a while for your toenail to grow back, and this also depends on the condition of your nail bed, but it's usually better to start over with a healthy nail.
If you're concerned about ingrown toenails you can schedule a consultation in Williamsburg and Hampton, VA, with Dr. Sara Bouraee, Dr. Jon Houseworth, Dr. Sun Byun, Dr. Daria Piotrowksi, and Dr. Shruti Vyas of Hampton Roads Foot and Ankle Specialists by dialing (757) 220-3311 to reach the Williamsburg, VA, office and (757) 224-7605 for Hampton, VA.