Methods for alleviating an ingrown toenail:
An ingrown fingernail, while not a life-threatening condition, can cause discomfort and, if left untreated, lead to infection. Here's a guide on how to treat an ingrown fingernail at home and when to seek medical help.
To treat an ingrown fingernail at home, follow these steps:
1. Soak the affected finger in warm, soapy water or warm water with Epsom salt for about 10 to 20 minutes, two to four times daily. This helps reduce swelling and soften the skin around the nail.
2. After soaking, apply an antibiotic or antifungal cream to prevent infection.
3. Keep the nail area clean, dry, and covered with a sterile bandage, changing it frequently especially if it gets wet or dirty.
4. Trim nails straight across and avoid cutting them too short or rounding the edges to prevent recurrence.
5. Avoid tight or restrictive activities that pressure the finger and wear loose footwear if the nail is on a toe.
However, if the pain and swelling do not improve with home treatment, it's essential to seek medical help. Here are the signs that indicate it's time to see a doctor:
- Redness, increased warmth, pus or drainage - Recurring ingrown nails - Underlying health conditions like diabetes - Severe pain or no improvement after a few days
A healthcare professional can prescribe antibiotics if an infection is present or perform minor surgical procedures for recurring or severe ingrown nails.
In summary, prompt home care and seeking medical advice when complications occur will help resolve an ingrown fingernail effectively and prevent infection or chronic issues.
Before treating an ingrown nail at home, wash hands thoroughly with soap and water. If inserting cotton under the nail is too difficult, use waxed dental floss to thread under the ingrown nail's edge instead.
In cases of repeated ingrown nails, a doctor may suggest removing the nail with an in-office procedure. Remember, long fingernails can accumulate more dirt and bacteria due to their length, so trim them regularly and maintain good hygiene.
People with diabetes, neuropathy, or circulation problems should not attempt to treat ingrown nails at home and should see a doctor instead. Always remember to scrub your hands for 20 seconds with soap and running water, and use a clean towel to dry your hands and nails after washing.
Sources: [1] American Academy of Dermatology. (n.d.). Ingrown Toenails. Retrieved from https://www.aad.org/public/diseases/a-z/ingrown-toenail-treatment [2] Mayo Clinic Staff. (2020, August 10). Ingrown fingernail. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ingrown-fingernail/symptoms-causes/syc-20375936 [3] National Health Service. (2021, March 11). Ingrown toenail. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ingrown-toenail/ [4] NHS Inform. (2020, April 20). Ingrown toenail. Retrieved from https://www.nhsinform.scot/illnesses-and-conditions/feet/ingrown-toenail [5] WebMD. (2021, February 10). Ingrown Toenail Treatment. Retrieved from https://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/ingrown-toenail-treatment
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