Find out the best way to treat your ingrown toenail.

Occurring when the edge of a toenail grows into the skin, an ingrown toenail can certainly make life rather unpleasant. Characterized by serious pain, swelling, and redness, the condition usually develops in big toes, although any toe can be affected. Read on to learn the ways to alleviate an ingrown toenail and when you should turn to our Indianapolis, IN, podiatrist, Dr. Jeffrey Agricola, for treatment.

How do I know that I have an ingrown toenail?

If you look at the toenail, you may be able to see that the edge of the nail is growing into the skin. This area of the toe may be painful, tender, red, or swollen.

When should I see a podiatrist?

While ingrown toenails can often be treated at home, it’s still important to know when to turn to a foot doctor. It’s time to visit our Indianapolis office if,

• There is pus, severe pain, or tenderness that is spreading across the toe (these are signs of infection)
• Your symptoms aren’t responding to at-home care
• You have diabetes or poor circulation in your feet (if you have diabetes you should always turn to a podiatrist if you are experiencing any changes in your feet)

How should I treat an ingrown toenail?

While an ingrown toenail will often resolve itself, you can ease symptoms by soaking your feet in warm water for 15-20 minutes several times a day. You may choose to apply an over-the-counter antibiotic cream over the area to prevent an infection. During this time, it’s also important to wear shoes that don’t bunch up or put pressure on the toes. An over-the-counter pain reliever can also temporarily alleviate the pain until the toenail heals.

How will a podiatrist treat an ingrown toenail?

If home remedies just aren’t helping, then it’s time to see your foot doctor in Indianapolis, who may recommend lifting the nail and placing cotton or a splint under it to prevent it from growing back into the skin. This will help the nail to grow out properly. In instances of a severe ingrown toenail, your podiatrist may need to remove the ingrown portion of the toenail.

Give us a call!

Whether you are dealing with a painful ingrown toenail or another foot problem, the experts at Prestige Podiatry can provide you with the comprehensive care that you need. Schedule your appointment today by dialing (317) 846-4111 for our Carmel office, or (317) 881-0070 for the Indianapolis office.