TOENAIL, PAINFUL
Description and Possible Medical Problems
We’ve all been guilty of cutting out toenails the way the experts say we’re not supposed to: too short and rounded, and not square. You know who you are! If you’re the type who’s determined to always get every last bit of everything, whether it means clearing your plate or cutting your toenails, sooner or later you’re going to have a problem with an ingrown toenail.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the nail starts to grow into the skin. Though usually it is just painful, it may become infected. Although cutting your toenail incorrectly can cause an ingrown toenail, shoes that are too tight and press the nail into the skin can be a factor as well.
Treatment
If you have an ingrown toenail, you should trim it carefully so that the nail is no longer digging into the skin; soaking it first will help soften it and make it easier to cut. You may also want to treat it with an antiseptic such as Bactine. To prevent future ingrown toenails, clip your nails straight across and wear shoes that don’t restrict your toes.
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