Ingrown Nail

The medical name of ingrown nails is “Onychocryptosis”. It is harmful nail condition in which the nails cuts or grows into any sides of the nail bed.

This disease can cause swelling, redness and pain around the nails and develop infection.

Symptoms of nail disease get worse while wearing a shoe. The big toe nail has become ingrown as compared to other toenails.

Signs and symptoms

Swelling is the main symptom of this disease. Signs of this nail disease include swelling and redness of the affected area. In most of cases, people with ingrown toenail experience pain around the affected nails. Sometime, a watery drained with blood or discharge pus.

Diagnosis

The health care providers can determine this nail disease by appearance of ingrown toenail. Physical examination such as blood pressure, pulse and detail examination of toenail, lymph nodes and foot are performed to determine the nail disease.

In rare cases, X-rays is used to diagnose the disease. If one has severe form of ingrown toenail, blood tests will be used for diagnosed the nail disease.

Causes

Ingrown Nail

High heels or tight-fitting footwear can cause the ingrown toenail. Nails should not be rounded and they can be straight across.

Disease such as fungal infection of nail may develop widened or thickened toenail.

In some cases, ingrown toenail can be caused by any injuries near about the nail.

When to seek medical advice

If one feels signs and symptoms of this nail disease, consult the doctor immediately. In the following conditions, one should also see the health care providers:

  • Tetanus
  • No improvement
  • Diabetics
  • Poor circulation
  • AIDS

Treatment

  • In case of mild nail disease, one should soak the foot in the lukewarm water for a few minutes. There is no need of adding antibacterial agents or soap to the water.
  • Wash the affected area gently at least two times per day with water and soap.
  • Never wear tight-fitting shoes or high heels.
  • One can take a medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen to remove the pain.
  • If there is no improvement in 3-4 days, call the health care providers immediately.

Prevention

  • Clipping of the toenails is the best option of prevention. Take care for long-term period.
  • One should only wear well-fitting footwear.
  • Always keep the feet clean from dirt and dust and try to dry them.
  • Never pick at the nails or tear the toenails from corners.
  • Avoid strenuous or running activities.
  • Call the doctor immediately, if one experiences swelling, drainage, redness and pain.