Ingrown toenails are a condition where the edges or corners of a toenail grow into the skin. It is quite common occurring in more than 3 million people last year in the United States. It doesn’t require any lab test or imaging but it in some cases does require treatment from a medical professional.
Last for months
It can last for many months and may be caused from shoes that crowd the toenails, cutting toenails too short, injury to the toenail or unusually curved toenails. Symptoms consist of redness, pain, swelling at the toenail, and limping.
Early on
Early when an ingrown toenail develops, the end of the toe can become reddened and painful as well as swelling mildly. There is no drainage or pus. It might feel hot to the touch, but you will not advance a fever. Later on, extra tissue and skin will grow around the nails sharp point. Treatment for ingrown toenails at that point may consist of surgery and medications.
Sign of other problems?
Most individuals see their nails as an appealing part of the bodies. But these nails can also be a valuablegauge of what is occurring on the inside of the body. Instead of only being a canvas for nail polish, toenails and fingernails can be flagging chronic diseases or other health conditions.
Vital clues
The shape, texture and color of your nails offer vital clues as to how the body is functioning on the inside. Strong nails usually belong to healthy individuals. Toenails that are brittle, ridged, yellow, or curved can all clues of underlying problems; for heart issues to thyroid problems.
When to see a medical professional
So, if selfcare only makes your ingrown toe worse, you need to see your medical professional for help.