Ingrown toenails can be a painful and common condition. The edge of the toenail will grow into the skin surrounding it, causing swelling, inflammation and infection. Ingrown toenails can occur in anyone. However, some factors, such as improper nail trimming, wearing tight shoes, or genetic predisposition, can increase their likelihood. If you are dealing with an ingrown toenail in Auckland, here are five ways to prevent and treat ingrown toenails. This will keep your feet healthy and pain-free.
1. Proper Nail Trimming Techniques
Adopting the correct nail trimming technique is one of the best ways to prevent ingrown toenails and treat them. Here are some steps in detail:
Trim Nails Straight across: When trimming your toenails always trim them straight rather than curving their edges. It reduces the chance of the nail getting into the skin. This can cause the problem.
Use The Right Tools: Buy a good pair of nail clippers or toenail scissors. The tools must be clean and sharp to avoid nail damage and infection.
Smooth Rough Edges : Use a nail file after trimming to smooth out any rough or sharp corners. This will prevent the nail from getting caught on shoes or socks, which could cause it to grow outwards.
Regular Care: Trim toenails to a suitable length regularly. This will prevent the toenails from growing too long and possibly embedding themselves into your skin.
2. Proper Footwear & Hygiene
Ingrown toenails can be prevented and treated by wearing the right footwear and keeping your feet clean. Here’s how:
Select the Right Shoes: Wear footwear that fits properly and allows your toes enough space to move. Shoes that are too tight or poorly fitted can cause the toes to rub together and increase the risk of the toenails getting into the skin. High heels and pointed shoes can cause excessive pressure to the toes.
Keep Your Feet Dry and Clean: Wash and dry your feet every day with soap and warm water. Moisture creates an ideal environment for bacteria, fungi and other pathogens. This increases the risk of infection.
Wear Breathable socks: Choose socks made of breathable materials such as cotton, or fabrics that wick moisture away. They keep your feet dry, and can reduce the risk for bacterial or fungus infections which can lead to ingrown toenails.
Rotate Footwear: Do not wear the same shoes everyday. Rotate your shoes to allow each pair to dry out and to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to fungal infections or ingrown toenails.
3. Home remedies and soaks
Ingrown toenails can cause pain and swelling. Several home remedies are available that will help relieve the discomfort. These home remedies can promote healing and help prevent complications.
Warm water soaks: Soak feet in warm soapy water for 15-20 min, 3-4 times per day. This will soften the skin surrounding the toenail and reduce swelling. Add Epsom salt to your soak for additional relief.
Apple Cider Soak: Apple Cider vinegar has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. Mix equal amounts of apple cider vinegar with warm water and soak your feet daily for 15-20 minutes. This will help reduce inflammation and prevent infection.
Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil is known for its antiseptic qualities and can be used to treat or prevent infections. Apply a few drops tea tree oil to the affected area using a cotton ball. Repeat this procedure two to three time a day.
Hydrogen Peroxide: To cleanse the affected area, combine a small quantity of hydrogen peroxide and water. Soak your feet in this mixture for 10 to 15 minutes. Hydrogen peroxide is a disinfectant that can prevent infection.
Topical Ointments: Applying a topical antibiotic ointment over-the counter to an ingrown toenail may help prevent infection and promote healing. After applying the ointment, cover the area with a bandage.
4. Effective pain management
Ingrown toenails can be painful and uncomfortable. Using the right pain relief and management techniques will make a big difference to your recovery.
Lift The Nail: In mild cases, lift the edge gently of the ingrown nail and place a piece of dental floss or cotton under it. This will help to separate the nail and skin so that it can grow above the skin’s edge. To maintain cleanliness, change the floss or cotton every day.
Pain Relievers: Over the counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce pain and swelling associated with ingrown nails. Please follow the instructions for dosage on the package.
Do not cut the ingrown nail: Although it may seem tempting, cutting the ingrown part of the nail can worsen your condition. Focus on lifting the ingrown nail and encouraging proper growth with other methods.
Open-Toed Shoes: If you have an ingrown nail, open-toed sandals or shoes can reduce the pressure on your toe. This will relieve pain.
5. When to seek professional help
Ingrown toenails are often manageable at home. However, sometimes professional medical help is required. If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical help.
Severe Swelling and Pain: Seek medical attention if the swelling and pain become severe or if there are signs of infection, such as pus, warmth, or redness around the affected region.
Recurring Ingrown Toenails: A healthcare professional can offer advice on prevention and treatment options, such as partial nail removal or nail braces.
Diabetes and Poor Circulation: People with diabetes or poor circulatory health should consult a doctor at the first sign that an ingrown nail appears. These conditions increase the risk for complications and infection.
Persistent Problems: A healthcare professional may offer other treatments or procedures to treat the ingrown toenail if home remedies and over-the counter treatments do not work.
Conclusion
Ingrown toenails are painful and uncomfortable, but they can be managed and prevented with the correct approach. You can prevent ingrown toenails by using the right nail trimming technique, wearing appropriate shoes, maintaining good hygiene, using home remedies and knowing when to seek out professional help. Consistent care and attention for your feet is key to preventing ingrown toenails.