Toenail whose free ends grow into, or become pressed into, the skin, causing inflammation and sometimes secondary infection.
A toenail that grows into the surrounding skin or tissue of the toe. Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and the discharge of pus. Home care includes soaking the affected foot in warm water and placing a small piece of clean cotton under the corner of the nail to lift it up. A doctor may prescribe antibiotics to control any infection. If the problem worsens, minor surgery may be necessary to remove part of the toenail. Prevention consists of trimming toenails straight across, wearing shoes that fit properly, and keeping the feet clean and dry. Doctors advise those who have diabetes mellitus to seek prompt treatment for ingrown toenails or other foot sores because they are more prone to infections, which are difficult to treat, because of a reduced blood supply.