An ingrown toenail is a condition in which one or both sides of the toenail begin to grow into the surrounding skin. It is an excruciating condition that may lead to swelling. This condition primarily happens to the big toes. Infections can occur because of all the bacteria hanging on the feet and in shoes, as shared by Dr. Nivedita Dadu, dermatologist and best doctor for Nail Avulsion Treatment in Delhi at Skinology Clinic.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Trimming toenails incorrectly
Wearing improperly fitting shoes. An ingrown toenail may also happen if shoes are too tight or short.
Cutting too short is one of the most common reasons for ingrown toenails. When the edge of the toenail curves develops into the surrounding skin, an ingrown toenail develops because it does not have transparent corners.
A new corner develops under the skin and gets stuck, causing intense pain, redness, and swelling. Bacteria or fungi can grow in the area and cause infection in the broken skin from the offending nail border. The disease occurs due to invading microorganisms such as Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Dermatophytes, Candida, and Trichophyton.
If the infected toenail is not well treated, serious issues such as chronic pain and disfigurement, cellulitis, and bone infection can develop.
When is it necessary to remove an infected or ingrown toenail?
As per a skin specialist in Delhi, Ingrown toenail removal is essential, especially when the condition becomes problematic, including several more points:
Pain Relief: In this condition, the person may experience excruciating pain. The nail digging into the surrounding skin causes discomfort, redness, and swelling. Thus, its removal provides fast relief to the person.
Preventing Infection: When the nail pierces the skin, bacteria can easily invade the skin. An untreated ingrown toenail may cause infection, which may spread and cause more severe health issues.
Avoiding Complications: Severe ingrown toenails may cause serious conditions like cellulitis (skin infection), abscess formation, or osteomyelitis (bone infection). Removal of ingrown toenails prevents these complications.
Enhancing Mobility: Ingrown toenails can make walking or wearing shoes uncomfortable. Thus, their removal restores normal movement and comfort.
Chronic Cases: Recurrent ingrown toenails may need surgical removal to prevent ongoing pain and discomfort.
Ingrown toenail treatment:
Permanent nail removal may be advised for children with chronic, recurrently infected ingrown toenails. If the problem remains, the doctor may suggest removing the part of the nail with surgery, such as a toenail avulsion in Delhi.
To make it narrower, the doctor will cut away the edges of the toenail. The procedure is done under a local anaesthetic so the patient will not feel any pain.
In some cases, a general anaesthetic may be necessary. The whole nail may be taken out if the nail has become very thick or distorted.
This procedure is not usually excruciating; most people can return to regular activity from the next day.
Conclusion:
Ingrown toenails should be treated as soon as symptoms appear, especially in people with diabetes, damaged nerves in the foot or leg, or weak blood flow. If left untreated, severe complications may occur.
If someone is experiencing an ingrown toenail, they should consult a professional for Nail Avulsion treatment in Delhi at Skinology Clinic. Proper care and timely removal may prevent complications and ensure healthy, pain-free feet.
