Causes and Treatment of Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown toenails are a frequent and frequently painful condition that can affect individuals of all ages. The edges of the toenail grow into the skin surrounding it and causes pain and swelling. Sometimes, it can lead to infections. If untreated an ingrown toenail could develop into a serious issue that requires medical attention. If you're experiencing constant discomfort, consulting an experienced doctor in Perth can be your ideal method of treatment. Let's look at the causes and treatments available to treat this issue.

Causes of Ingrown Toenail

There are a variety of factors that can lead to the formation of an ingrown nail. Understanding the causes may aid in preventing the problem:

Nail trimming that is not done correctly cutting toenails too short or rounded edges may stimulate the nail to expand to the skin.
Shoes that are tight The wear of shoes that are tight place pressure on the feet and cause nails to grow in a different way.
Genetics Certain people have naturally curving or large toenails. This makes them more susceptible to becoming ingrown.
Injury Stubbing your toe or suffering repeated trauma (such as sports) could result in nail defects and growth.
Poor foot hygiene Maintaining feet that are excessively wet or dirty can increase the chance of getting infections and nail growth problems.

Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenail

There are many treatment options are available to manage and resolving an ingrown toenail. How severe the problem determines the best treatment plan:

1. Home Remedies for Mild Cases

If you suffer from a minor ingrown nail, these remedies at home can assist:

Soak your feet in warm soapy water along with Epsom salt for about 15 minutes every day to lessen swelling.
Lift the edge gently and place a tiny piece of floss or cotton under it to stimulate growth outwards.
Use an anti-bacterial ointment, and ensure that the toe is free of dirt to avoid infection.
Wear comfortable, open-toed shoes to ease pressure on the toe that is affected.

2. Medical Treatments

If the toenail ingrown worsens or gets infected, contacting the doctor in Perth is vital. They can suggest:

Partially Nail Removal In the most severe of instances, a small portion of the nail can be removed to reduce pain and stop recurrence.
Complete Nail Removal If persistent ingrown toenails continue to develop then the entire nail can be removed, often together with a process to stop growth.
Antibiotics In the event of an infection, topical or oral antibiotics can be prescribed to fight bacteria.

3. Prevention Tips

To prevent the formation of ingrown toenails Consider these preventive measures:

Straighten your toenails and don't round the edges.
Shoes that are properly fitted and have sufficient toe room.
Make sure your feet are clean and dry to minimize the risk of getting infected.
Do not pick or tear your toenails.

Seeking Professional Help

If the ingrown nail persists or is causing severe pain you should consult an expert. A qualified Podiatrist in Perth will evaluate your situation and recommend a custom treatment to avoid complications. In the event of delay, it could cause infections or invasive procedures, therefore seeking prompt intervention is always advised.

Conclusion

A injury to the nail that is ingrown toenail in Perth could be difficult and disruptive However, with the proper treatment and prompt intervention, it is able to be treated effectively. Through the use of home remedies or a professional caring for your feet are crucial for your overall well-being. If you're suffering from an ingrown toenail, do not delay in scheduling your appointment with a podiatrist and discover the best treatment for your requirements.