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Ingrown toenails are common in adults. The toenail that is usually affected is the big toe, but it can happen with any toe. The first signs are pain and redness where a sharp edge of the nail has started growing into the skin. If left untreated, an infection can occur, which is evident with light skin surrounded by red skin, swelling and possibly a fever. Once it has reached this point, professional medical treatment is necessary.

In the early stages of an ingrown toenail, the condition can easily be healed with simple home-care.

Soak the foot 3 to 4 times a day in warm water for fifteen minutes.

The goal is to guide the toenail away from the skin and force it to grow in a different direction. After soaking, roll a small piece of gauze or cotton between your fingers to make a small wick. Waxed dental floss may also be used. Lift up the corner of the toenail that is pushing into the skin and place the wick between the nail and skin. Although painful, this is necessary to stop the toenail from growing in further. Finish each soaking with a new wick and try to push it in a little further.

Apply a topical antibiotic ointment and protect the nail area by keeping it dry with a bandage or white socks. The dyes in colored socks may seep into the wound and cause more problems. Wear loose, comfortable shoes. If possible, wear open-toed sandals. Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen and continue treatment until pain and inflammation subsides.

If there is no improvement after 3 days, consult your doctor. For people who have Diabetes, nerve damage or poor circulation, it is critical that only professional treatment be obtained. Doctors may prescribe an antibiotic or perform an in-office procedure by removing part of the nail.

The best scenario is preventing ingrown toenails altogether. Cut toenails in a straight line, not rounded and not too short. Wear proper-fitting shoes, not high-heels, too tight or loose shoes. Taking these precautions will lessen the chances of ever having to suffer with an ingrown toenail again.

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13y ago

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