What is ingrown toe nail?

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When a toenail is ingrown, it is curved and grows into the skin, usually at the nail borders (the sides of the nail). This “digging in” of the nail irritates the skin, often creating pain, redness, swelling, and warmth in the toe.

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If an ingrown nail causes a break in the skin, bacteria may enter and cause an infection in the area, which is often marked by drainage and a foul odour. However, even if the toe isn’t painful, red, swollen, or warm, a nail that curves downward into the skin can progress to an infection.

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Podiatry care

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After examining the toe, Omar will select the treatment best suited for you. If an infection is present, an oral antibiotic may be prescribed. Sometimes a minor surgical procedure, often performed in the office, will ease the pain and remove the offending nail. After applying a local anesthetic, Omar removes part of the nail’s side border.

Some nails may become ingrown again, requiring removal of the nail root. Following the nail procedure, a light bandage will be applied. Most people experience very little pain after surgery and may resume normal activity the next day.