Isla Bennett
Ingrown toenails are a common problem, often affecting the big toe. They can be painful and, if left untreated, may become infected. While there are temporary home remedies to alleviate the pain, such as soaking the foot in Epsom salt, applying topical ointments, or trimming the corner of the nail, severe cases may require permanent ingrown toenail removal. This involves numbing the toe with a local anaesthetic, cutting and removing the ingrown portion of the nail, and applying a chemical called phenol to the nail bed to prevent recurrence. It is important to consult a podiatrist or doctor for a proper assessment and treatment plan, as they can determine the most suitable procedure for your specific circumstances.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons for Removal | Injury, fungal infection, ingrown toenail, blood blister under the nail |
| Before Removal | Wash toe and nail area with soap and water, sterilize the area, clip away portion of the nail resting on dead skin |
| Removal Techniques | Matrixectomy, Wedge Resection, Vandenbos Procedure, Nail Avulsion, Nail-bed ablation, Zadek's procedure, Electrocautery |
| After Removal | Keep the toe clean and bandaged, soak in lukewarm water, rest and elevate the limb, change the cotton in the toe twice a day |
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What You'll Learn
Soak your foot in Epsom salt to soften the toenail
Soaking your foot in an Epsom salt bath is a common self-treatment method for ingrown toenails. It is also used to treat toenail fungus. The mineral compounds in the salt help to reduce inflammation and soften the toenail, making it easier to trim.
To create an Epsom salt bath, fill a tub or container large enough to hold your foot with warm water. Then, add two quarts of warm water and three tablespoons of Epsom salt. You can use table salt instead of Epsom salt if you don't have any. Soak your foot for about 15 to 20 minutes, massaging your toe every once in a while to help reduce inflammation.
After soaking your foot, dry it thoroughly with a clean towel and apply an antibacterial or antimicrobial cream to the toe. You can also add essential oils, such as lavender or tea tree oil, to the foot bath to help deter infections and promote healing.
While Epsom salt can be used to treat wounds and infections, it is important to exercise caution as it could also irritate the wound. It is recommended to discuss your options with a doctor before using this treatment, especially if you have certain medical conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, or heart problems, or if you are pregnant.
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Sterilise tools and hands
Sterilising your tools and hands is crucial to prevent infections and the spread of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Here is a step-by-step guide to ensure proper sterilisation:
Wash Your Hands
Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water before starting the sterilisation process. This is an important step to ensure that your hands are clean and free of any germs or bacteria.
Gather Your Tools
Collect all the nail tools you will be using, such as files, clippers, and pushers. Ensure that these tools are suitable for disinfection and sterilisation.
Clean Your Tools
Start by cleaning your tools with warm, soapy water and a soft brush to scrub away any dirt, debris, or nail residue. This step ensures that your tools are physically clean and free of any visible impurities. Dry the tools with a towel, and then let them air dry completely.
Sterilisation Methods
There are several effective methods to sterilise your tools:
- Alcohol Soak: Dunk your tools in at least 70% isopropyl alcohol solution for a minimum of 10 to 30 minutes. This method is effective in destroying bacteria and viruses.
- Boiling Water: Fill a pot with clean water and bring it to a boil. Carefully place your sturdy metal tools in the boiling water for at least 10 to 30 minutes. This method may not be suitable for delicate tools.
- Autoclave: For professional-grade sterilisation, use an autoclave, which employs steam and pressure to sterilise tools. This method is ideal for metal instruments.
- UV Steriliser: UV sterilisers use ultraviolet light to kill bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This is a suitable option for non-metal tools that cannot withstand heat.
- High-Pressure Steaming: If you don't have access to an autoclave, you can use a small pressure cooker to sterilise your tools. Steam at 275°F for 5 minutes, then allow the tools to dry completely.
Store Sterilised Tools Properly
Keep your sterilised tools in a clean, dry place, away from dust and moisture. Use airtight containers, tool rolls, or zippered pouches, and label them accordingly to avoid mixing used and sterile tools. Regularly wipe down your storage containers with disinfectant to maintain a sterile environment.
Remember, proper sterilisation of your tools and hands is crucial to prevent infections and maintain good nail health.
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Remove new pieces as they loosen
Removing pieces of your toenail as they loosen is a gradual process. It is important to be patient and careful throughout the process. Before attempting to remove pieces of your toenail, you should clean the toe with warm, soapy water. Dry your toe thoroughly before continuing. This step is crucial for preventing infection.
Once your toe is clean and dry, you can start removing the pieces of the toenail that have loosened. Use a pair of sterilized clippers to carefully clip away the loose pieces of the nail. Be gentle and avoid applying too much pressure, as this could cause pain or further damage. Take your time and work slowly to ensure that you only remove the pieces that have already loosened.
If your big toenail has loosened due to an injury or infection, it is important to address the underlying issue. For example, if you have a blood blister under the nail, you can pierce the nail with a sterilized pin to drain it. Alternatively, if you are experiencing a fungal infection, consult your doctor, who can prescribe an appropriate antifungal cream.
After removing the loose pieces of the nail, continue to keep your toe clean and bandaged until the nail bed has healed. Change the bandage regularly to prevent bacteria and germs from building up. You may also want to apply a topical ointment or cream to the affected area to promote healing and reduce the risk of infection.
Throughout the process of removing and healing your big toenail, it is important to be cautious and gentle. Avoid forcing any pieces of the nail to loosen, as this could cause pain and further complications. If you are experiencing persistent pain or difficulty, it is best to consult a medical professional for advice and guidance.
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Treat the underlying infection
Toe infections are common, especially in people with weakened immune systems, diabetes, or poor circulation. If you have any of these conditions, it is important to monitor your feet regularly for any signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, or pus.
If you suspect a bacterial infection, you can treat it with antibiotic cream or pills. For fungal infections, which are usually indicated by a discoloured, brittle, or thickened nail, antifungal pills or creams are available over the counter or by prescription. It is important to note that antifungal tablets may not be suitable for those with liver or kidney disease, or for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals.
In the case of an ingrown toenail, which is when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, you can soak your foot in warm water mixed with Epsom salt or soapy water twice daily. Keep your foot dry otherwise. Gently lift the edge of the nail and place a small piece of cotton or dental floss between the nail and the skin to separate them. Change the cotton or floss daily. This will help the nail grow above the skin. You can also apply petroleum jelly to the tender area and bandage the toe. Choose comfortable, roomy shoes and cut your nails straight across to prevent further issues.
If home remedies are ineffective, a doctor may recommend lifting the nail and placing a piece of cotton or a splint underneath. If the infection is severe, a partial or complete nail removal procedure may be necessary.
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Visit a doctor for antifungal cream
If you have a fungal infection in your toenail, it is recommended that you visit your doctor. They can prescribe a suitable antifungal cream or medication to treat the infection. Oral antifungal medications are often more effective than topical treatments, especially for severe cases, but they can have side effects and interact with other medications.
It is important to be patient when treating toenail fungus, as it can take time for the infection to clear. In addition to antifungal medications, your doctor may recommend keeping your toenails trimmed and painted to help treat and prevent infections. Before trimming your nails, be sure to wash your feet and nails with soap and water and dry them thoroughly. Disinfect your nail clippers and any other tools you use.
If you are experiencing a lot of pain or are concerned about the appearance of your toenail, you may want to consider removing the nail. It is best to consult a medical professional before attempting to remove your toenail. They can advise you on the best course of treatment and help you determine if you are a good candidate for nail removal surgery.
In some cases, a blood blister may develop beneath the nail, causing the toenail to die and lift away from the toe. If this happens, you can pierce the nail with a sterilized pin to drain the blister. Be sure to sterilize the pin by wiping it with rubbing alcohol and heating the tip in a flame until it is red-hot. However, if you have diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, or any immune system problems, do not attempt to drain the blister yourself.
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