Ingrown Toenail: What It Is, How Dangerous It Can Be, and the Best Treatment Options

If you've ever felt pain near the edge of your toenail, noticed swelling or redness, or even seen pus, you may be dealing with an ingrown toenail. Though common, many people aren’t sure how to treat it properly. In this article, we’ll explore what an ingrown toenail really is, its causes, potential risks, and how to treat it safely and effectively.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, most commonly affecting the big toe. This can lead to pain, inflammation, swelling, and even infection.

Common Symptoms

Early signs:

Pain or tenderness along the side of the nail

Redness and swelling

Sensitivity when wearing shoes or walking

Severe symptoms:

Pus drainage

Foul odor

Bleeding

Fever in cases of advanced infection

Inflamed or overgrown skin tissue

What Causes Ingrown Toenails?

Primary causes:

Improper nail trimming – cutting nails too short or rounding the edges

Tight shoes – putting excessive pressure on the toes

Toenail injury – stubbing your toe or repeated trauma

Genetics – naturally curved or thick nails

Excess body weight – increases pressure on feet

Risk factors:

Athletes, dancers, or people who use their feet extensively

Poor foot hygiene

People with diabetes or circulation issues

Abnormally thick or curved nails

How Dangerous Is an Ingrown Toenail?

At first, it might seem minor—but if left untreated, it can lead to more serious complications, especially in people with underlying health issues.

Possible Complications:

Localized infections that can spread to surrounding tissues

Bone infections (osteomyelitis) in severe or untreated cases

Chronic nail deformity

Abscesses that require minor surgery

High-risk groups:

People with diabetes

Individuals with poor immune systems

Seniors

Those with poor blood circulation

How to Treat an Ingrown Toenail

Home Treatment (Early Stages)

Soak Your Feet

Use warm water mixed with salt (1 tablespoon per liter)

Soak for 15–20 minutes, 2–3 times a day

Helps reduce swelling and soften the nail

Lift the Nail

After soaking, gently insert a clean cotton or dental floss under the nail edge to lift it

Do this carefully to avoid further injury

Apply Topical Medication

Use over-the-counter antibiotic ointments

Avoid steroid creams unless directed by a doctor

Keep the area clean and dry

When to See a Doctor

Persistent pus or foul smell

Fever or signs of infection

No improvement after 3–5 days of self-care

If you have diabetes or other chronic health conditions

Medical Treatments

Antibiotics – topical or oral, for infection control

Minor surgery – partial nail removal or wedge resection

Chemical matrixectomy – destroys part of the nail bed to prevent regrowth

Complete nail removal – for recurring or severe cases

Medications Commonly Used

Topical treatments:

Antiseptics like Povidone-iodine, Chlorhexidine

Antibiotic creams like Neomycin, Mupirocin

Anti-inflammatory creams (use only under medical supervision)

Oral medications:

Antibiotics such as Amoxicillin, Cloxacillin (prescription required)

Pain relievers like Ibuprofen or Paracetamol

How to Prevent Ingrown Toenails

Trim Your Nails Properly

Cut nails straight across—don’t round the edges too much

Avoid trimming nails too short

Use clean, sharp nail clippers

Trim nails after a bath when they are softer

Choose Proper Footwear

Wear shoes that fit properly—not too tight

Avoid pointed toes and high heels for prolonged use

Use moisture-wicking socks

Rotate shoes to give your feet a break

Maintain Good Foot Hygiene

Wash your feet daily and dry thoroughly, especially between toes

Apply moisturizer to prevent dry, cracked skin

Inspect your feet regularly for any changes or early signs of trouble

When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention

Emergency signs:

High fever

Red streaks moving up the foot or leg

Excessive swelling or inability to move the toe

Strong, foul odor

See a doctor within 24–48 hours if:

Pus discharge continues

Pain intensifies

Inflammation spreads

No improvement with home care

What to Avoid

Don’t dig into the nail with sharp tools

Don’t try cutting the ingrown part yourself

Don’t self-medicate with painkillers without addressing the cause

Avoid tight or narrow shoes while healing

Are Herbal Remedies Effective?

While herbal or natural remedies may offer relief, they should be used cautiously and never replace standard medical treatment, especially in high-risk individuals. Always consult a healthcare professional before using any alternative methods.

Ingrown Toenails in Diabetic Patients

People with diabetes are at greater risk due to:

Slow wound healing

Lowered immune response

Poor circulation

Reduced foot sensation

Important: Diabetic patients should always seek medical attention and avoid self-treatment.

The Future of Ingrown Toenail Treatment

Modern medicine continues to advance in treating this common condition. Innovations include:

Laser treatments

Minimally invasive procedures with faster recovery

New materials for preventing recurrence

An ingrown toenail may seem like a small issue, but if left untreated, it can lead to serious complications. Proper self-care, good hygiene, and early treatment are key. For persistent or severe cases, seeking medical help ensures long-term comfort and prevents recurrence.

Prevention is better than cure—so take care of your nails, wear the right shoes, and check your feet regularly.