Ava Monroe
Ingrown nails are a common problem, often affecting the big toe. They occur when the side of the nail grows into the soft tissue of the toe or finger, causing inflammation and pain. While ingrown nails are usually minor and can be treated at home, they can become infected, leading to more severe complications. This condition is called paronychia and is characterised by pain, swelling, redness, and pus-filled pockets around the nail. Treatment for ingrown nails ranges from simple home remedies to medical interventions, depending on the severity of the condition.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cause | Cutting nails too short, nail biting, injuries, genetics, overly curved toenails, diabetes, neuropathy, circulation problems, age, physical labour-heavy jobs |
| Symptoms | Pain, redness, swelling, inflammation, Infection, difficulty walking or wearing shoes |
| Treatment | Soaking in warm water, lifting nail and inserting cotton or dental floss, trimming nails properly, antibiotics, surgery, painkillers, chemical matrixectomy, nail removal |
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Ingrown nail symptoms
Ingrown nails are a common problem and can be extremely unpleasant, especially if the affected finger is often used for tasks like typing. Ingrown nail symptoms can vary in severity, and they can become infected if left untreated.
The most common sign of an ingrown nail is pain where the nail meets the skin. This pain may be mild at first but can become debilitating if the ingrown nail progresses. In some cases, pain from an ingrown nail can make it difficult to wear shoes comfortably or walk. The affected nail can become red, swollen, and painful, and the pain may spread to the nearby tissue.
Ingrown nails can also cause a condition called paronychia, a skin infection around the fingernails or toenails. Paronychia is characterised by pain, swelling, and redness around the base or sides of the nail. It can also lead to the formation of pus-filled pockets, known as abscesses. If left untreated, paronychia can lead to a serious infection of the skin and even the underlying bone.
Ingrown nails can be caused by various factors, including improper nail trimming, nail biting, genetics, and physical labour-heavy jobs. The most common cause is cutting the nails too short or at an improper angle, which increases the risk of the nail becoming ingrown as it regrows.
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Home treatments
Ingrown fingernails are usually harmless and can be treated at home. However, if left untreated, they can lead to severe pain and complications. In some cases, an infection may spread to the bone (osteomyelitis) and soft tissue (gangrene). Therefore, it is important to treat ingrown fingernails promptly and effectively. Here are some home treatment options:
- Soak the affected finger in warm water: Fill a deep bowl with warm water and soak the ingrown fingernail for 15 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. This will help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation. You can also add Epsom salt or hydrogen peroxide to the water to further reduce the risk of infection. Keep the nail dry when not soaking it to prevent bacterial growth.
- Use over-the-counter (OTC) topical treatments: After soaking and gently drying the affected area, apply OTC topical antibiotics, antifungals, or corticosteroids to help prevent infection and promote healing.
- Lift the nail gently: If the ingrown nail is minor, you can try to lift it gently. Soak the nail to soften it, then use a small piece of cotton, dental floss, or a cotton ball to gently lift the nail and place it under the edge of the ingrown nail. This will help separate the nail from the skin and direct it to grow above the skin's edge. Secure the lifting material with tape if needed.
- Practice good hand hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after any contact with the affected area. Use a clean towel to dry your hands and nails thoroughly. This will help prevent the spread of bacteria and reduce the risk of infection.
- Trim nails properly: To prevent ingrown fingernails, it is important to trim your nails properly. Soak your nails before trimming to soften them, and always use clean, sharp nail clippers or scissors. Cut your nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short or at an improper angle. Round the edges gently with a clean nail file, moving in the same direction to avoid damaging the nail.
If home treatments do not provide relief within a few days or if the ingrown nail becomes infected, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment.
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Medical treatments
Ingrown nails are a common condition, often caused by injury, improper nail trimming, nail biting, or picking. While ingrown nails can usually be treated at home, more severe cases may require medical attention.
If home remedies do not help, or if you have an infection, you should seek medical treatment. A doctor may recommend one of the following non-invasive medical procedures:
- Placing a piece of tape on the affected area of the finger to pull the skin away from the nail, providing relief from pressure and pain.
- Lifting the nail and inserting a small wedge of medicated cotton or dental floss between the nail and the inflamed skin to separate them.
- Draining an abscess to remove pus.
If non-invasive treatments do not work, a doctor may recommend surgery. Surgical treatments include:
- Partial nail avulsion, which involves removing the portion of the nail that has grown into the skin. This is often combined with chemical matrixectomy, a procedure in which a chemical agent is rubbed into the nail bed to prevent the nail from growing back.
- Removing the entire nail using special tools or chemicals.
In some cases, a doctor may recommend ablation, a newer form of treatment in which a small electrical charge or chemical is applied to the nail bed to prevent the nail from growing back.
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Causes
An ingrown nail occurs when the corner or side of the nail curves downward, and the nail begins to grow into the soft support tissue of the finger or toe. This can cause redness, swelling, and pain. If left untreated, it can lead to a severe infection.
The most common cause of ingrown nails is improper nail trimming. Cutting the nails too short or at an improper angle increases the risk of a nail becoming ingrown as it regrows. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends cutting the nails straight across and not cutting the edges much shorter. Rounding the edges gently with a clean nail file or emery board is also advised.
In some cases, people are born with nails that are too big for their fingers, which can increase the likelihood of ingrown nails. Nail biting is another cause, as it damages the shape and condition of the nails, making them more susceptible to becoming ingrown. Additionally, the mouth carries bacteria that can increase the risk of infection if the nail becomes ingrown.
Certain finger injuries, such as slamming your finger in a door, can also cause ingrown nails by temporarily changing the shape of the nail. Physical labor-heavy jobs, such as moving heavy objects or writing with the middle and ring fingers, may also put pressure on the nail bed, leading to ingrown nails.
Genetics can also play a role, as conditions causing deformed fingers or toes can lead to ingrown nails. Overly curved toenails, though uncommon, can also cause repeated ingrown toenails.
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Prevention
Ingrown fingernails are a common problem and can be extremely unpleasant. They can cause redness, swelling, pain, and even infection. The good news is that there are several preventive measures you can take to avoid this issue. Here are some detailed tips to help you prevent ingrown fingernails:
Keep Nails Clean and Trimmed:
Maintain proper nail hygiene by regularly washing your hands and keeping your nails clean. Trim your nails straight across, following their natural shape, and avoid cutting them too short. It is recommended to keep your nails at a healthy length, not exceeding the edge of your fingertip. This helps prevent the corners from growing into the surrounding skin.
Soak and Moisturize:
Soaking your nails in warm water, especially before trimming, can help soften them and make it easier to trim them properly. You can also add substances like Epsom salts or tea tree oil to the water. Tea tree oil has antifungal and antiseptic properties that can help combat nail fungus. Additionally, keeping your hands and nails moisturized with hand cream can prevent them from drying and cracking, reducing the risk of ingrown nails.
Avoid Ripping or Tearing:
Refrain from ripping or tearing your fingernails. Instead, use a clean nail trimmer and file off any rough, uneven edges. This helps maintain a smooth and even nail edge, reducing the chances of ingrown nails.
Monitor Nail Changes:
Be vigilant about any changes in the color, texture, or shape of your nails. These changes may indicate an underlying health issue. If you notice any abnormalities, consult a doctor for advice.
Practice Good Hand Washing:
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend practicing good hand hygiene to prevent the accumulation of dirt and bacteria under long fingernails. Wash your hands regularly, scrubbing underneath your nails, and dry them with a clean towel. This helps reduce the risk of bacterial or fungal infections, which can contribute to ingrown nails.
Treat Injuries Promptly:
Certain finger injuries, such as slamming your finger in a door, can change the shape of your nail temporarily and lead to an ingrown fingernail. If you experience such an injury, start soaking the affected nail in warm water several times a day to help prevent the nail from growing into the skin.
Avoid Pressure on Nails:
Be mindful of activities that put pressure on your nails, such as writing with a pen resting on your nail or typing. These activities can cause the nail to curve unnaturally and grow into the skin. Adjust your habits to reduce the pressure on your nails.
Consult a Doctor for Underlying Conditions:
If you have underlying health conditions such as diabetes, poor circulation, or immunocompromised status, consult a doctor for advice on nail care. These conditions can increase your risk of developing ingrown nails and their associated complications.
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Frequently asked questions
An ingrown fingernail occurs when the corner or side of the fingernail curves downward and the nail begins to grow into the skin. It can cause redness, swelling, and pain where the nail meets the skin.
Ingrown fingernails are often caused by cutting the nails too short or biting them. They can also be caused by injuries to the finger, such as smashing it in a door, or by physical labour-intensive jobs.
Mild ingrown fingernails can be treated at home by soaking the finger in warm water and gently lifting the nail from the skin. You can then place a small piece of cotton or dental floss between the skin and the nail. Soaking your hands in warm water several times a day for 10-20 minutes can help soften the skin and relieve pain.
If your ingrown fingernail is persistent and very painful, or if you have signs of infection such as fever, chills, body aches, red streaks on the skin, or extreme pain, you should see a doctor immediately.
