How To Fix Ingrown Toenail
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An ingrown toenail is a common, yet painful condition in which the nail grows so that one side or corner of it digs into the skin of the toe. If left untreated, this can result in infection and severe pain. Fortunately, there are several simple treatments and prevention strategies that can help resolve this issue and prevent it from happening again in the future.
Soak your feet: Soaking your feet in warm water several times a day can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with an ingrown toenail. You can also add Epsom salt or baking soda to the soak in order to help alleviate inflammation and speed healing.
Cut the nail: In some cases, it is necessary to carefully cut away the ingrown portion of the nail. It is important to use sterilized nail clippers and cut away the nail very slowly and carefully. It is also a good idea to seek help from a podiatrist if you are not confident in doing this yourself.
Try splinting: Splinting is another option for fixing an ingrown toenail. This technique involves slowly slipping a thin piece of fabric or cardboard underneath the nail and taping it in place. This helps lift the nail away from the skin, allowing it to grow downwards rather than inwards.
Take an oral antibiotic: In some cases, an ingrown toenail is caused by a bacterial infection and may require an oral antibiotic. If you have any signs of infection like redness, swelling or a foul odor, it is important to see a doctor who can prescribe a suitable antibiotic.
Wear shoes with a wide toe box: To prevent an ingrown toenail from happening in the first place, you should always wear shoes or boots that have a wide toe box. This allows your toes to have enough room to move around and breathe, reducing the chances of the nail pressing against the skin and becoming ingrown.
These simple tips can help to prevent ingrown toenails from occurring, as well fix the issue if it does happen.
If you are still experiencing pain after trying the above tips, it is important to speak to a doctor or podiatrist who can advise on other treatment options.