How to Treat a Painful Ingrown Toenail

When it comes to our body, there are a number of body parts that can take a real beating, and our feet is definitely one of them. Often, we are on our feet for long period at a time. We need them to feel as comfortable as possible so that it doesn’t interfere with our daily activities. With that said, our feet aren’t void of issues and there are a number of problems that can pop up that may or may not require attention from you.

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One issue that people can run into is an ingrown toenail. This happens when a sharp edge or corner of the toenail cuts into the skin on the side of the toe.
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Ingrown toenails are known for being quite painful. They can recur and can also lead to infection. What this means is that you can’t simply ignore it. Here are some ways you can treat a painful ingrown toenail.

Make Sure Your Shoes Fit Properly

The first tip is to make sure your shoes fit properly. This will not only feel more comfortable when you’ve got an ingrown toenail, but it also helps to work as a preventative measure. While dealing with an ingrown toenail it’s best to reach for open-toed sandals whenever possible, or shoes that are made of a soft and breathable fabric. You don’t want to be placing any pressure on the affected toe.

Start Soaking Your Foot

A foot soak can also be very beneficial in relieving some of the swelling and pain associated with the ingrown toenail. Ideally, you want to be able to soak your foot a few times a day. You can use warm water and salt and soak your foot for 15 minutes at a time.
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Besides the foot soak, you want to be sure your foot is kept clean and dry the rest of the time.

Use Antibiotic Ointment as a Precautionary Measure

Because ingrown toenails can lead to an infection, you may also want to use an antibiotic ointment as a precautionary measure. Lightly dab the ointment on the affected toe twice a day.

It’s also important that you examine your toe a few times a day to make sure there are no signs of infection.
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Signs to watch for include swelling, pus that is draining, an increase in the amount of pain, and redness.

Visit the Urgent Care When in Doubt

Unfortunately, in some cases, a visit to the emergency clinic to get checked out will be needed. You may need to be treated for an infection, or you may need a surgical procedure done in order to treat the ingrown toenail.

Leaving It Isn’t an Option

When it comes to an ingrown toenail, the pain alone is enough of a reason not to just ignore it. Because it won’t just remedy itself, and it can turn into an infection, it’s important to stay on top of it, treat it, and visit a doctor if needed.

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