Ask The Doctor: The Skin Around My Nail is Red & Swollen
So, you've got a toe that's angry, red, and puffy? Chances are you've got an ingrown toenail making itself at home. Don't fret – this is a common woe, and there's plenty you can do to show it the door.
The Root Causes of Ingrown Toenails
- Improper Nail Trimming: If you've been snipping your nails haphazardly, it could lead to ingrown nails. Make sure you cut straight across and avoid rounding the corners.
- Nail Structure: Sometimes, it's just how your nail grows that's causing the trouble.
- Family Matters: Yep, genetics can play a role in those pesky ingrowns.
- Bumps and Bruises: Trauma, like stubbing your toe, can lead to an ingrown nail situation.
At-Home Treatment Option
When things are mild, an Epsom salt soak and a careful trim might just do the trick.
When DIY Isn't Cutting It
If your toe is red and swollen, chances are there's a little infection at play. It's important to seek care from your podiatrist to stop the infection in its tracks.
A podiatrist can prescribe medication to rid the infection and do an in-office procedure to remove the ingrown.
Overall, if the skin around your toenail is red, swollen, and painful, it's best to contact your podiatrist right away to help alleviate the pain and stop any infections that may be brewing.
