July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

Ingrown nails occur in both women and men and are a common condition. It affects the large toes and occurs when the sides of the nail grow into the fleshy areas of the toe subsequently causing great pain and inflammation, redness and pus at that site. This condition is more prevalent in societies where shoes are worn compared to cultures where shoes are not worn.

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

There are a number of causes for example the nail might be too big in relation to the toe, but most common are poorly fitting shoes (forcing toes into a small space will push the nails edge into soft tissue) or incorrect trimming of toenails. You should cut your nails straight across because curved cutting causes edges to turn inward and avoid cutting very close to the bed of the nail.

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

Uncommon causes are multiple infections, various medications, bone spurs beneath the nail, unusually curved toenails and trauma to the toenail. Toenail thickening problems resulting from fungal infections and other causes may lead to ingrown toenails.

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

Prevention is the best treatment. Ingrown toenails are easily treated by a doctor who will identify possible complications and check that the healing process is effective.

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

Appropriate footwear is essential and you should not crowd the toes or feet. Trim toenails weekly or every two weeks and trim them straight with no curved corners. Keep toenail beds soft and exfoliate the feet to avoid dead cells accumulating. If ingrown nails develop despite preventative care being taken there are some home remedies or treatments.

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

A doctor must always be consulted if: severe discomfort is experienced, redness is spreading, there is pus, there are problems relating to blood circulation (legs and feet) and diabetes problems exist.

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

Untreated ingrown toenails cause pain and may result in underlying bone infections which can result in hospitalization. Complications more commonly occur with diabetes or circulation problems (may require surgery or promote development of gangrene).

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

Here are some basic home treatment methods: -

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

1. Soak feet in warm salt water - about 20 minutes 3 times daily (reduces swelling and tenderness).

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

2. Place pieces of cotton underneath the ingrown nail's edge after every soaking (encourages nails to grow above the skin).

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

3. Use topical antibiotics and bandages in tender areas.

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

4. Wear appropriate footwear (open toed shoes if possible).

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

5. If pain relievers are required then visit a doctor (over the counter products like ibuprofen or acetaminophen will suffice).

July 4th Nails By Amra Silajdzic

If improvement is not evident or pain and discomfort continues after 2 to 3 days then visit a doctor to ensure that the infection doesn't result in complications, hospitalization or surgery.