男士专属指甲护理
What Is an Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail, also known as onychocryptosis, is a common and often painful condition where the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh of the toe.
This can lead to a variety of symptoms, including:
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Pain and tenderness
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Inflamed or red skin
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Swelling
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In some cases, an infection with pus or drainage
While an ingrown toenail can affect any toe, it is most common on the big toe.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Several factors can cause a toenail to become ingrown. Understanding these causes is the first step toward prevention.
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Improper Nail Trimming: This is one of the most common causes. Cutting toenails too short, rounding the corners, or tearing at the nail can encourage the nail to grow into the surrounding skin.
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Improperly Fitting Footwear: Shoes or socks that are too tight or narrow can put pressure on the toes, forcing the nail to grow into the flesh.
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Trauma: An injury to the toe, such as stubbing it or having something fall on it, can cause the nail to grow improperly. Repetitive pressure from activities like running or kicking a soccer ball can also contribute.
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Heredity: In some cases, a person's genetics can predispose them to ingrown toenails due to the natural shape or curvature of their nails.
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Fungal Infections: A fungal infection can cause the toenail to thicken or widen, making it more likely to become ingrown.
Treatment
Treatment for an ingrown toenail depends on its severity. For mild cases without infection, you can try home care. If there are signs of infection—such as severe pain, pus, or significant swelling—it's important to see a healthcare provider.
Home Care (for mild, non-infected cases):
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Soak Your Foot: Soak the affected foot in warm, soapy water for 15-20 minutes, several times a day to reduce swelling and pain.
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Gently Lift the Nail: After soaking, carefully place a small piece of clean cotton or waxed dental floss under the ingrown edge to help the nail grow away from the skin. Change it daily.
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Wear Appropriate Footwear: Wear sandals or open-toed shoes to avoid pressure on the toe.
Professional Treatment:
A healthcare provider or podiatrist can provide professional treatment for more severe cases.
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Lifting the Nail: The doctor may use a splint to lift and guide the nail.
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Removing the Nail: For a more serious case, a doctor may numb the toe and partially remove the ingrown portion of the nail.
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Removing the Nail and Nail Bed: If the problem is recurrent, the doctor may remove a portion of the nail along with the underlying tissue to prevent it from growing back.
Prevention
Several factors can cause a toenail to become ingrown. Understanding these causes is the first step toward prevention.
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Preventing an ingrown toenail is much easier than treating one.
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Trim Toenails Properly: Always cut your toenails straight across. Don't cut them too short, and avoid rounding the corners.
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Wear Well-Fitting Shoes: Choose shoes with a wide toe box that don't cramp your toes.
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Protect Your Feet: Wear sturdy, protective footwear to prevent injuries to your toes.