Ingrown Toenails Prevention Tips
Do you suffer from ingrown toenails? do you know the signs of ingrown toenails infection? an ingrown toenail occurs when your nail grows into the skin surrounding it. It is usually caused by wearing shoes that are too tight or cutting your nails improperly.
If you’re like most people, you probably don’t give much thought to your toenails. But if you’re prone to ingrown toenails, then you know just how painful and frustrating they can be. An ingrown toenail occurs when the side or corner of your toenail grows into the skin, typically at the base of your big toe. Check these prevention tips we prepare for you!
For your ingrown toenails, here are a few prevention tips you can follow:
- Cut Your Nails Properly – When trimming your nails, try to cut them straight across. Avoid rounding the corners of your toenails or cutting them too short as this can cause ingrown toenails.
- Wear Properly Fitting Shoes – Wearing tight shoes is one of the leading causes of ingrown toenails, so avoid squeezing your feet into shoes that are too small. Choose shoes that are comfortable and provide your feet with enough room to spread out.
- Wear Protective Footwear– Wearing supportive footwear such as sandals and flip-flops can protect your feet from ingrown toenails. If your activities require you to wear regular shoes, make sure they fit properly and cushion your feet properly.
- Moisturize Your Feet Regularly – Keeping your skin soft and supple can help prevent ingrown toenails from forming. Use a moisturizing lotion or oil on your feet regularly to keep them hydrated and healthy.
- Keep Your Feet Clean – You should regularly wash your feet with soap and warm water, especially between the toes. This helps to prevent ingrown toenails by keeping the area clean and free from debris.
- Avoid Bacterial Infections – If you already have an ingrown toenail, be sure to keep it clean and dry as this can help prevent bacterial infections. Also, avoid picking at the ingrown nail or trying to cut away the ingrown skin as this can make the infection worse.
- Soak Your Feet – Soaking your feet in warm water for about 10 minutes a few times a day can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with ingrown toenails. Adding Epsom salt or apple cider vinegar to the water can also help reduce swelling and irritation around the ingrown nail.
- Visit Your Doctor – If you have an ingrown toenail that doesn’t seem to be getting better with home care, make sure to visit your doctor. They can prescribe medications or offer other treatments to help reduce pain and irritation.
Following these simple prevention tips can help you prevent ingrown toenails and keep your feet healthy and pain-free. If you’re experiencing severe pain or signs of infection, see a medical professional for proper treatment.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails:
If you suspect that you may have an ingrown toenail, look for these common symptoms:
- Redness and swelling around the nail
- Pain or tenderness in the area
- Draining pus or fluid
- Warmth in the affected area
- Difficulty walking or wearing shoes
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
The most common cause of ingrown toenails is wearing shoes that are too tight or the wrong size. Other possible causes include:
- Improperly cutting your nails – If you cut your nails in a curved shape instead of straight across, it can increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Injury – An ingrown toenail can also be caused by an injury or trauma to the area.
- Poor hygiene – Not cleaning your feet regularly can increase the risk of ingrown toenails as dirt and debris can build up under the nail and cause it to become ingrown.
- Heredity – Some people have a genetic predisposition to ingrown toenails, so if you have a family history of ingrown toenails, it may be more likely that you’ll develop one.
- Fungal infections – Toenail fungus can also lead to ingrown toenails as the infected nail is more prone to becoming ingrown.
Complications of Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails can lead to serious complications if not treated properly. These include:
- Recurring ingrown toenails – If ingrown toenails are not treated properly, they can keep coming back.
- Infections – Ingrown toenails can become infected if left untreated. Signs of an infection include increased redness, swelling, warmth in the area, or pus draining from the ingrown toenail.
- Permanent deformity – If left untreated for a long period of time, ingrown toenails can cause permanent deformities in the nail and surrounding tissue.
If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above or think you may have an ingrown toenail, be sure to visit a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Risk Factors
Certain factors can increase the risk of ingrown toenails, such as:
- Diabetes – People with diabetes are more likely to develop ingrown toenails due to poor circulation in the feet.
- Age – Older adults are more likely to have ingrown nails due to dry skin and weakened nails.
- Poor foot care – Not taking proper care of your feet can increase the risk of ingrown toenails.
- Foot deformities – People with curved or wide toes are more likely to get ingrown nails due to the shape of their feet.
- Athlete’s foot – Bacterial and fungal infections such as athlete’s foot can make ingrown toenails more likely.
By following these prevention tips, you can help reduce your risk of ingrown toenails and keep your feet healthy. Remember to wear comfortable shoes that fit well, keep your feet clean and dry, and if you notice any signs of infection, contact a medical professional right away.
Get Expert Advice Today: Contact Us for your Ingrown Toenails!
If you’re experiencing ingrown toenails, our team of foot and ankle specialists is here to help. Our podiatrist can diagnose the problem, provide treatment options, and help you manage your ingrown nails so that they don’t become a long-term issue.
Your Total Foot Care Specialist is a leading provider of foot-ankle treatment and prevention, including Ingrown Toenails. We are located in Katy, TX, and also near your areas at Memorial, Galleria, Cypress, and Copperfield. For more information, visit our website at katyfootcare.com or call us at 281.395.FEET (3338). You may also send us an email at info@katyfootcare.com to schedule your appointment. Contact us today to learn more about our ingrown toenail services and how we can help you get back on your feet and live an active, healthy lifestyle.
We look forward to hearing from you soon!
