Ingrown toenails develop when the edges or corners of the toenail curve and pierce the skin surrounding the nail bed. This often leads to discomfort, tenderness, redness, and swelling in the affected area. When left untreated, ingrown toenails can escalate, causing infection and potentially severe complications. Proper care involves gentle nail trimming, wearing well-fitting shoes, and seeking medical attention for severe cases to prevent complications.
Ingrown Toenail Treatment
Anaheim and Newport Beach
Ingrown toenails occur when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain, redness, and swelling. Commonly found on the big toe, they can result from improper nail trimming, tight-fitting shoes, or injury. If untreated, they may lead to infection, so proper ingrown toenail treatment in Anaheim and Newport Beach is essential.
What are ingrown toenails?
Signs & symptoms:
- Pain or tenderness along the edge of the toenail
- Redness and swelling around the affected nail
- Sensitivity to pressure or touch in the affected area
- Formation of a small, hard lump or fluid-filled blister
- Discharge of pus if the ingrown toenail becomes infected
- Difficulty walking or wearing shoes comfortably due to discomfort
- In severe cases, the presence of tissue overgrowth around the nail (hypergranulation)
Possible causes:
- Improper nail trimming, such as cutting nails too short or rounding the edges
- Wearing shoes that are too tight or narrow, putting pressure on the toes
- Trauma or injury to the toe, leading to nail deformity or ingrowth
- Genetic predisposition, where the shape of the nail increases the likelihood of ingrowth
- Repeated stress on the toes because of certain sports or occupations
- Fungal infections or other conditions that affect or alter nail growth patterns
Contact Newport Foot and Ankle Center for a specialized assessment aimed at identifying the most effective route for your ingrown toenail treatment in Anaheim and Newport Beach.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing ingrown toenails typically involves a clinical examination by a healthcare professional. During the examination, Dr. Haupt will assess the affected toe, looking for signs of redness, swelling, tenderness, and any visible signs of ingrowth. He may gently press on the area to assess for pain and examine the nail and surrounding skin for abnormalities.
In some cases, Dr. Haupt may need to perform additional tests to confirm the diagnosis or evaluate the extent of the ingrown toenail. This could include taking a sample of any discharge for laboratory analysis if there are signs of infection or using imaging techniques such as X-rays to assess for underlying bone involvement. If you suspect you have an ingrown toenail, please seek prompt evaluation from Dr. Haupt to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment options
Dr. Haupt will discuss the most suitable treatment based on the severity of your ingrown toenail and your individual circumstances, ensuring effective relief and the prevention of recurrence.
Non-invasive treatment
Dr. Haupt may initially recommend conservative treatments to relieve discomfort and encourage proper nail growth. These can include:
- Soaking: Soaking the affected foot in warm water several times a day can help reduce swelling and tenderness.
- Proper Nail Trimming: Dr. Haupt will demonstrate the correct technique for trimming your nails to prevent further ingrowth.
- Wearing Proper Footwear: Avoiding tight or narrow shoes can alleviate pressure on the toes and promote healing.
Surgical treatment
In cases where conservative measures for ingrown toenail treatment in Anaheim and Newport Beach are ineffective or if the ingrown toenail is severe, Dr. Haupt may recommend surgical intervention:
- Partial Nail Avulsion: This procedure involves removing part of the ingrown nail under local anesthesia to allow the affected area to heal properly.
- Total Nail Avulsion: In more severe cases or for recurrent ingrown toenails, Dr. Haupt may recommend removing the entire nail to prevent future issues.
- Nail Matrixectomy: This surgical procedure involves permanently preventing the ingrown toenail from recurring by destroying the portion of the nail matrix responsible for nail growth.
Schedule your consultation
Newport Foot & Ankle Center is your premier destination for comprehensive foot care in Anaheim and Newport Beach. Under the expert guidance of fellowship-trained podiatrist Dr. Jeffrey Haupt, our medical center offers personalized solutions for ingrown toenails. If you’re experiencing discomfort or symptoms of ingrown toenails, schedule a consultation with Dr. Haupt to explore your options today.
