Ingrown toenails are common, and they occur when a toenail grows into the skin around it, which causes swelling, pain, and sometimes infection. In some instances, ingrown toenails can be treated at home, while others require medical attention.
The stages of an ingrown toenail matter most for effective, long-term treatment. Here’s our experts’ insight on the stages of an ingrown toenail and what you can do at each one.
What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?
Ingrown toenails occur when the border of the nail presses into the skin, and the skin grows over the nail. They grow sideways into the nail bed, causing pain, inflammation, and, eventually, infection. Blood flows to the irritated section of the nail, causing swelling and redness.
Many things can cause ingrown toenails:
- Not cutting toenails straight across or cutting them too short
- Trauma to the toe from sports-related accidents
- Genetic predisposition that causes nails to grow in a curved shape
- Bacterial infections
- Wearing tight shoes
Wearing shoes that don’t fit has many downsides beyond the risk of an ingrown toenail. Read our blog on the Side Effects of Wearing Tight Shoes to learn more.
The Stages of an Ingrown Toenail
If you have an ingrown toenail, the next step is identifying its stage of progression. Knowing the stages of an ingrown toenail can help you determine whether you can treat it at home or need to see a doctor.
Stage 1
During the first stage of an ingrown toenail, you will experience mild to moderate pain around the nail bed. It might turn red and become swollen and painful to the touch. Soak the area with warm water and salt or antibacterial soap to loosen the skin and decrease the risk of infection.
Stage 2
During the second stage of an ingrown toenail, the symptoms from stage one will intensify. In addition to pain, swelling, and redness, you might experience pus draining from the area caused by new inflamed tissue—a sign of infection.
By this stage, you should seek medical attention. In the meantime, soak the area with warm water and salt or antibacterial soap.
Stage 3
By the third stage, every symptom from stage two has worsened, and there’s a high potential for infection, usually with a fever. It’s crucial to see a professional to discuss your best treatment options.
Let Us Help Get You Back on Your Feet
As the Foot Specialists of Birmingham, we are here to help you get back on your feet. If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, or redness around your toe area, don’t wait for it to reach stage 3 with an infection before seeing a doctor.
Call us today at (205) 445-0661 or complete our online form to make an appointment with our podiatrists. We look forward to meeting you!
