What To Do When You Have An Ingrown Toenail

If you have pain in your toes as a  result of ingrown toenails in Lockport, and Williamsville, NY you can count on Dr. Jason White of Podiatry Solutions of WNY to offer the treatments that you need. Ingrown toenails can be very painful. If you are prone to getting them, you know that it is an ongoing issue.

Causes

For some people, it is a congenital condition. Ingrown toenails can be hereditary and do tend to run in some families. The toe is just not big enough for the size of the toenail. Another cause of ingrown toenails is shaping your toenails too round at the corners, usually with a nail file, or cutting them too short. If you have badly fitting shoes, this can also contribute to the condition.  If you sustain trauma to your toe, this can cause your toenail to ingrow. 

Who gets ingrown toenails?

Almost anyone can get an ingrown toenail, but older people get them more often. Especially the elderly who are not able to reach their feet comfortably. Teens are also prone to ingrown toenails since their feet tend to sweat profusely and this softens the nail, which may then split and dig into the skin.

What to do for an ingrown toenail

The most common treatment for ingrown toenails is to soak them. Use warm soapy water several times a day. If there is swelling and the toe is infected, an antibiotic may be prescribed. Avoid the things that aggravate the irritation, like tight shoes and socks. If the infection is severe or isn't responding, then in-office surgery may be necessary to remove part of the toenail. A local anesthetic will be administered before the procedure begins.

How to avoid ingrown toenails

To avoid getting ingrown toenails, make sure your shoes and socks don't fit too tightly, cut your toenails straight across, and keep your feet clean at all times.   

If you are suffering from ingrown toenails in Lockport and Williamsville, NY Dr. White of Podiatry Solutions of WNY is accepting new patients. Call the Williamsville Office at  (716) 634-5993 or the Lockport Office at (716) 434-6601 for an appointment.