An ingrown toenail can cause serious pain and discomfort. This unfortunate condition can occur in anyone and cause complications like 
infection. Luckily, you can treat and even prevent ingrown toenails with the help of your doctor at Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists in Elgin, Crystal Lake, Huntley and Schaumburg, IL.
Do I have an ingrown toenail?
An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail grows into the skin around the nail bed, curling downwards and sometimes breaking the skin. The signs and symptoms of an ingrown toenail include:
- pain along the sides of the toenail
- swelling around the toenail
- redness and irritation
- infection
- drainage of pus or fluid
Ingrown Toenail Prevention
Preventing ingrown toenails and other foot-related conditions is especially important for diabetics who experience nerve damage causing the feet to lose feeling. You can avoid ingrown toenails by taking some simple precautions. Wear shoes which give your toes plenty of room to lie flat and do not cause the toes to point inward. Cut your toenails straight across and always wear fresh socks and keep your feet dry and clean.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment in Elgin, Crystal Lake, Huntley and Schaumburg
Treatment for ingrown toenails varies depending on the severity of the condition. In some cases, an ingrown toenail may require a simple treatment involving lifting the nail and placing a piece of cotton underneath to help it grow straight across rather than curl inward. In some more severe cases, your podiatrist may remove part of the nail. Your doctor may numb the nail using local anesthetic during this procedure. Patients who have a very severe ingrown toenail or reoccurring ingrown toenails on the same toe may require removal of the entire nail and nail bed.
For more information on ingrown toenail treatments or prevention, please contact Advanced Foot and Ankle Specialists in Elgin, Crystal Lake, Huntley and Schaumburg, IL. Call to schedule your appointment with your podiatrist today!
