Ingrown Toe Nail
The toe nail that appears ingrown due to
inflammation of the flesh around the nail is termed as ingrown toe
nail. The nail embeds and becomes soft under the flesh (that has
inflamed around it). This condition is medically termed as
Onychocryptosis or Unguis Incarnates.
SYMPTOMS
Symptoms of an ingrown nail include; pain on
the margins of the nail , unbearable pain while wearing tight
footwear and sensitivity to slight pressure of any kind. Bumping of
an affected toe can lead to very sharp and unendurable pain as the
tissue gets punctured further by the nail. An ingrown toenail is a
common disorder that usually, though not necessarily impacts the
outer edge of the big toe.
Early in the course of an ingrown toenail, the
end of the toe becomes reddish and painful with mild swelling.
There is no pus or discharge. It may feel warm to the touch, but
the patient may not have fever. Later, extra skin and tissue will
grow around the sharp point of the nail. A yellowish discharge may
begin that indicates, body's response to the trauma of the nail
irritation. In severe conditions, the swelling becomes worse and
there may be white or yellow colored discharge from the area.
CAUSES
Tight fitting shoes or high heels cause the
toes to be compressed together and pressurize the nails to grow
abnormally. Improper nail trimming can also cause the corners of
the nail to dig into the skin. Fungal infections of the nail may
also develop a thickened toe nail. An acute injury near the nail or
any recurring damage to the nail (during active sports) may also
lead to an ingrown nail.
MEDICAL TREATMENT
A doctor may simply try to file or cut the nail
down the center to change the shape of the nail as it grows. If any
extra tissue has grown around the inflamed area of skin, the doctor
may choose to remove the same to help it heal faster. The doctor
numbs the area before removal of any tissue. If no acute infection
is diagnosed, then the nail is elevated and basic treatment is
recommended that includes wearing warm soaks, proper shoes, and
frequent cleaning of the nails.
Several types of splints can also be used.
These protect the skin from the sharp corner of the nail. Some of
the most common types of splints include cotton wicks, plastic
strips, plastic tubes down the side of the nail, and various
glue-like substances (resins).
PREVENTION
Careful and regular clipping of the nails are
the best methods to prevent Onychocryptosis. Toenails should be
clipped straight across. This prevents the nail corners from
digging into the skin. Nails should not be rounded or cut too
short. Proper fitting shoes and proper feet hygiene is also
required to prevent any problems.