Sharing my experience with ingrown toenails, where the edge of the nail dug into the skin, causing pain, swelling, and inflammation, leading to discomfort.

Ingrown toenails are a condition where the edge of the nail digs into the skin, causing pain, swelling, and inflammation. It is mainly caused by improper nail trimming habits and wearing tight shoes, and in severe cases, infection or pus may develop, requiring treatment.

 

Ingrown toenail is a condition where the edge of the toenail grows into the skin, causing pain, swelling, and inflammation. It mainly occurs on the big toe, and in severe cases, pus may form or infection can occur.

 

Cause

1. Incorrect toenail trimming habits: Cutting toenails too short or rounding the edges can make the nails more likely to dig into the skin.

2. Tight shoes: Wearing shoes that press on the toes or high heels frequently causes the toenails to be pushed into the skin.

3. Structural problems of the foot: Can occur when the shape of the foot or the curvature of the toenails is abnormal.

4. Trauma: Injuries such as hitting a toe or heavy objects falling on the foot can be the cause.

5. Genetic factors: The way nails grow can be influenced genetically.

The cause and aftermath of ingrown toenails

 

1. 1. The reason for developing ingrown toenails

I usually have the habit of rounding the edges of my toenails when I trim them because I thought it looked neater. However, starting from a certain day, the sides of my toenails began to hurt. At first, I thought it was simply because my toes were pressed by my shoes, but as time went on, my toes swelled and it became very painful just to touch them. That was when I realized I had an ingrown toenail.

 

Additionally, one of the causes was that the shoes I frequently wore had narrow toe boxes and pointed fronts. This caused my toes to be pressed, leading the toenails to dig into the surrounding skin. Ultimately, poor toenail care habits and uncomfortable footwear contributed to the development of ingrown toenails.

 

2. Toenail ingrown treatment review

Initially, I tried to reduce swelling at home by soaking my feet in saltwater foot baths. I mixed salt into warm water and soaked my feet for 20 minutes every day, which temporarily alleviated the pain. However, it felt like the toenail was digging deeper into the skin, and gradually, walking became more difficult.

 

Eventually, I visited the hospital, and the doctor recommended a toenail correction device. It was a treatment that involved attaching a small metal wire to the toenail to guide it away from the skin, which was somewhat uncomfortable but beneficial because it didn't require surgery. After wearing the correction device for a few months, my toenail gradually started to grow in the correct direction.

However, if the situation had been more severe, I might have needed to undergo a nail removal surgery. I heard it involves removing part of the nail under local anesthesia, but fortunately, my orthodontic treatment was sufficient.

 

Reviews and Lessons

Having experienced ingrown toenails, I have come to realize the importance of proper toenail care. Now, I always cut my toenails straight across and avoid trimming the edges. I also try to wear comfortable shoes. When I need to wear high heels or tight shoes, I make sure to give my feet rest time, and I have developed the habit of soaking my feet in warm water when I get home.

 

Ingrown toenails can sometimes be managed with self-care in the early stages, but if pain persists or inflammation worsens, it is advisable to visit a hospital. I treated mine with a correction device, but depending on the situation, surgery may be necessary, so I felt it was wise to seek prompt medical attention.

 

 

Symptoms

Pain and tenderness around the toenail

Swelling and redness of the toes (redness of the skin)

Pus or blood may be discharged, and if the infection worsens, fever and inflammation will become more severe.

 

Treatment methods

1. Self-management

- Saltwater foot bath: Soak your feet in warm saltwater to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

- Toenail shape correction: Cut the toenails straight across and do not round the edges.

- Wear properly fitting shoes: Choose comfortable and roomy shoes to prevent pressure on the toes.

 

2. Medical treatment

- Toenail correction device use: Uses a correction device to guide the toenail to grow straight.

- Medication treatment: Prescribe antibiotic creams or oral antibiotics to treat the infection.

- Surgical treatment: In severe cases, you may undergo surgery to remove part of the ingrown toenail or permanently remove part of the nail root.

 

Prevention methods

- Trim your toenails straight across and do not cut them too short.

Wear comfortable shoes that fit well on your feet.

Maintain strict foot hygiene to prevent infections.

 

In cases of severe ingrown toenails, it is better to seek treatment from a dermatologist or surgeon rather than self-treatment. If there is persistent inflammation or pain, prompt treatment is necessary as infection can spread.