What is an Ingrown Toenail? Why Does It Occur?

Ingrown toenail is a very common condition that can significantly affect patients’ daily lives. It is generally defined as the corner or edge of the nail growing into the surrounding soft tissue. It is most commonly seen in the big toe. Along with the ingrown nail, symptoms such as pain, tenderness, redness, and swelling may occur. In such cases, possible complications should also be considered, and consulting a doctor is important.

Especially in individuals with conditions such as diabetes or atherosclerosis, the risk of complications related to an ingrown toenail is higher. Therefore, seeking medical attention becomes even more important. We will also explain the symptoms and treatment methods of ingrown toenails, but first, let’s look at the causes.

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

The most common cause of an ingrown toenail is an imbalance between the size of the nail and the width of the nail bed. Sometimes hereditary nail problems can lead to this condition, while in other cases it may result from improper nail trimming. Wearing unsuitable or unhealthy footwear can also contribute to the development of ingrown toenails. In general, the causes can be listed as follows:

• Imbalance between the nail bed and the width/length of the nail
• Wearing tight or compressive shoes
• Cutting nails too short
• Injury to the toenail for various reasons
• Naturally curved nails
• Improper manicure and pedicure
• Not cutting curved nails straight
• Structural inward curling of the toenails
• Trauma due to nail damage or detachment

Ingrown toenails are not only seen in adults but also in children and infants. Babies’ toenails grow very quickly, so proper nail care is essential. Even minor neglect can lead to an ingrown toenail, causing discomfort. In infants, redness and swelling are usually observed where the nail meets the skin. Discharge may also occur. Due to sensitivity, babies may cry when the area is touched. In such cases, a doctor should be consulted.

What Are the Symptoms and Types of Ingrown Toenails?

Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:

• Excessive sensitivity in the nail bed
• Persistent pain or discomfort
• Redness around the nail
• Swelling around the nail
• Increased warmth in the surrounding tissue
• Discharge from the affected area

If pain and discomfort occur, a doctor should be consulted. Although many people expect it to heal on its own, infections may develop. Since an ingrown toenail can make walking difficult, medical intervention is often necessary. In individuals with poor blood circulation to the feet, such as those with diabetes or atherosclerosis, this condition can lead to serious consequences. Therefore, timely medical consultation is crucial.

How Is an Ingrown Toenail Treated?

Home remedies do not always provide effective treatment. Methods such as placing cotton under the nail are commonly used. If the condition is in the early stage and not structural, such methods may help. However, if symptoms such as swelling, redness, and severe pain are present, it is better to consult a doctor without delay. Increased warmth or pus discharge may indicate infection.

In some cases, part or all of the nail may need to be removed. In severe cases, surgical intervention is required. Ingrown toenail surgery is performed under local anesthesia and is a quick procedure. The situations requiring surgery include:

• Failure of other treatment methods
• Recurring ingrown toenail problems
• Presence of complications along with conditions such as diabetes

During surgery, the foot is first cleaned with an antiseptic solution. Then, local anesthesia is administered to numb the area. A tourniquet may be applied to prevent bleeding. Using special medical instruments, part or all of the nail is removed. A vertical incision is made toward the nail root, and the affected portion is extracted. The procedure is completed with bandaging. Although the operation is quick, patients may need to rest for a few days. Protecting the foot from impact and avoiding pressure is important, and depending on the patient’s job, a short break from work may be necessary.

What Should Be Done for an Ingrown Toenail?

To support faster and more comfortable healing:

• Soak feet in warm water 3–4 times daily for at least 20 minutes
• Place cotton or waxed dental floss under the nail afterward
• Keep feet dry outside of soaking periods
• Avoid cutting nails until healing occurs
• Apply antibiotic cream and cover with a bandage if necessary
• Choose footwear carefully
• Wear comfortable shoes that do not put pressure on the nails
• Prefer open-toe shoes or sandals when possible
• Consult a doctor before using pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium
• Cutting the ingrown part yourself may worsen the condition and increase pain

How Does Infection from an Ingrown Toenail Heal?

If infection develops, it is important to consult a doctor. Medication, usually antibiotics, may be required and should only be prescribed by a physician. Antibiotics should never be used randomly. The dosage must be determined by the doctor. Attempting to drain the infection by squeezing or applying pressure is ineffective and may worsen the condition and increase pain.

Which Doctor Should You See for an Ingrown Toenail?

For ingrown toenails, patients should consult the orthopedics department. In cases requiring minor surgical intervention, general surgeons may perform the procedure.