Simple strategies could keep you from developing an infected ingrown toenail. 

An ingrown toenail is a fairly common problem in which the corner of the nail grows into the skin. The problem with ingrown toenails is that despite being innocuous, they can be quite painful. Worse yet, they can also develop an infection if you aren’t careful. If you are prone to ingrown toenails or have one now, it’s important that you turn to our Hackettstown, NJ, podiatrists Dr. Fawaz Nesheiwat, Dr. Kyle Alessi, and Dr. Barry Mullen if you notice signs of an infection including,

• Pus or drainage coming from the nail
• Increased redness or swelling
• Hardened skin around the nail
• Symptoms that aren’t improving or are getting worse
• Increased pressure under the nail
• A throbbing pain
• Skin that is warm to the touch

If you are dealing with infected ingrown toenails, it’s important that you turn to our Hackettstown, NJ, podiatrists for immediate treatment. We will need to treat the infection with a round of antibiotics. Those with nerve damage in their feet, weakened immune systems and diabetes should come into our practice for treatment if they have an ingrown toenail (even if it isn’t showing signs of an infection). Since ingrown toenails can lead to more severe complications for diabetics, it’s important that you seek immediate care from our team.

How to Care for an Ingrown Toenail 

Providing your ingrown toenail with the proper home care can help to prevent an infection from forming. Some of the ways to care for an ingrown toenail include,

• Soaking the affected foot in a warm bath with Epsom salts, which can reduce redness and swelling
• Take an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory
• Apply a topical antibiotic to the skin around the nail
• Always wash hands thorough before and after handling the ingrown toenail (to prevent germs from spreading)

When to See a Podiatrist 

If your ingrown toenail doesn’t get better within two to three days of home care, then it’s a good idea to see our podiatrists. We can treat the ingrown toenail by removing part of the nail or by simply lifting the edge of the nail away from the skin and placing an antibiotic pad underneath (which can reduce the risk for infection while also helping the nail grow out).

If you are dealing with infected ingrown toenails, our podiatrists at Foot Care Associates in Hackettstown, NJ, can provide you with the immediate treatment you need to get your infection under control. Call us at (908) 852-0229.