Common Nail Problems

WHAT ARE INGROWN NAILS?

An ingrown nail is the result of a nail growing into the skin that surrounds it.
This often occurs at either edge of the big toe. Ingrown nails may be caused by improper trimming, inherited nail deformities, injuries, finagle infections, or pressure.

Symptoms
Ingrown nails may cause pain at the tip of the
toe or all the way to the base of the toe. The pain
is often worse while walking. An ingrown nail may also lead to infection and inflammation. If it's infected, you might see pus or redness.

Evaluation
To determine the extend of your problem,
your podiatrist examines and possibly palpates (presses) the painful area. If other problems are suspected, blood tests, cultures, or x-rays may
be done as well.

Treatment
If the nail is not infected,your podiatrist may trim the corner of it to help relieve your symptoms. For a partially ingrown nail, your podiatrist may need to remove one side of your nail back to the cuticle and treat the base of the nail. Severe infections or totally ingrown nails may require antibiotics and temporary or permanent removal of the entire nail. To lessen pain, a local anesthetic may be used in these procedures.