When To See a Podiatrist for an Ingrown Toenail Pain

An ingrown toenail is a common foot condition that occurs when the corner of your toenail grows into the skin beside your nail. This typically affects the big toe and is characterized by pain, swelling, and, in more severe cases, bleeding.

While some ingrown toenails may be treated through home remedies, like antibiotic ointments, others may need professional care. Read on to find out when to visit a podiatrist.

There Are Signs of Infection

Most of the time, ingrown toenails don’t come with serious health complications. But if they’re left untreated for a long time, they may lead to an infection. Signs of an ingrown toenail infection include intense pain, excessive redness, bleeding, discharge of pus, and even the possibility of a fever. An untreated infection may spread to other parts of the body, so consult a foot doctor before symptoms worsen.

Home Remedies Don’t Work

If you notice symptoms of an ingrown toenail, it’s best to treat it at home right away. You may soak your feet in warm saltwater for 15-20 minutes several times a day, or put a topical antibiotic cream on the infected area. But if these treatments don’t cure your foot condition, there might be a bigger problem only a podiatrist can diagnose and treat.

Your Ingrown Toenails Are Recurring

Even if you don’t experience severe symptoms whenever you develop ingrown toenails, getting them frequently is still a cause for concern. This may happen because of ill-fitting shoes, improper toenail cutting, or recurrent foot or toe injuries. To find out the cause of your ingrown toenail pain and get the necessary treatment, talk to a foot specialist.

You Have Diabetes

Since people who have diabetes usually suffer from numbness in their feet, it will be harder for them to spot ingrown toenails. As a result, they may experience more severe symptoms and a higher risk of infection. So, if you have diabetes, it’s crucial to inspect your feet daily and reach out to a podiatrist at the first sign of an ingrown toenail or any other foot disorder.

Reach Out to Thomas Podiatry & Associates

Knowing when to see a professional for an ingrown toenail treatment will help prevent your foot condition from worsening. If you have an ingrown toenail or other foot problem, contact our experts at Thomas Podiatry & Associates in Salisbury, MD.