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Ingrown ToenailDefinitionAn ingrown toenail happens when a portion of the toenail curves into the flesh of the toe and imbeds itself in the soft tissue. It can occur on any of the toes, but usually occurs on one of the big toes. Ingrown Toenail  © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. CausesThe most common causes of an ingrown toenail are:
Risk FactorsA risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. The main risk factor for ingrown toenails is having family members with ingrown toenails. SymptomsIngrown toenails often cause no symptoms at first. Eventually, the following symptoms may develop at the site of the ingrown toenail:
DiagnosisIn almost all cases, you or your doctor can diagnose an ingrown toenail based on the location and the symptoms. In rare cases, you may need an x-ray . For example, if your doctor suspects the infection may have spread to the toe bone. TreatmentYou may be able to treat an ingrown toenail yourself if you catch it early. But if the condition gets worse or does not improve, you will need to seek medical care. If you have diabetes, you must seek medical attention for any infection or wound involving your feet or toes. Medical CareYour doctor may recommend the following treatments :
If you repeatedly get ingrown toenails, or your ingrown toenail is severe, the doctor may:
Self-care
PreventionTo help prevent ingrown toenails:
RESOURCES: American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society American Podiatric Medical Association CANADIAN RESOURCES: Calgary Foot Clinic Podiatrists in Canada References: American Podiatric Medical Association website. Available at: http://www.apma.org. Roberts JR, et al. Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine . 4th ed. Saunders; 2004. The Merck Manual of Medical Information—Home Edition . Simon and Schuster, Inc.; 2000. Last reviewed September 2009 by Robert E. Leach, MD Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2009 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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