Ingrown toenails aren’t only an eyesore but also a real pain. When you’re suffering from this problem, Jose F. Hilario, DPM, PA, who serves the communities of Converse, Live Oak, Schertz, and San Antonio, Texas, has the experience and knowledge to help. Whether you’ve just noticed your toenail issue or you’ve been fighting it for some time, Dr. Hilario and his team offer conservative measures and patient-centered care to get you the relief you’ve been searching for. Call the office today or book a consultation online to make an appointment.
Ingrown toenails are a common nail issue that usually affects one or both of your big toes. However, this condition may occur on your other smaller toes as well.
Typically, the sides of your toenail grow outward, away from your flesh. However, an ingrown toenail happens when the nail on the toe grows down into the soft tissue of your toe. This often causes pain and, in some cases, infection.
Ingrown toenails have many causes, including genetics. Other causes include:
The symptoms of an ingrown toenail can vary and may include redness or swelling at the corners of your toe. You may also notice drainage from the toe, or a foul odor, especially if it becomes infected.
If you have an ingrown toenail, you can sometimes take care of it at home. However, if you notice redness, drainage, or a foul odor coming from the toe, you should see Dr. Hilario as soon as possible.
Treatment for an ingrown toenail is often conservative, meaning surgery isn’t necessary. Dr. Hilario may advise you to soak your foot several times a day in warm water to alleviate pain and swelling. He also may suggest taking an anti-inflammatory until the condition has healed.
However, if home measures don’t work, Dr. Hilario removes the portion of the nail that’s ingrown in the office. He then prescribes a topical medication if there’s an infection present.
If the nail continues to become ingrown, Dr. Hilario can permanently remove the root of the nail that’s problematic, using chemicals. This ensures that the nail won’t be able to grow into your tissues anymore.
You can take certain measures to prevent ingrown toenails. For instance, properly trimming your toenails can effectively keep the nail healthy. This means not cutting them too short and trimming them straight across.
You also should avoid shoes that put too much pressure on your toes, including pointy shoes and heels. Avoid ripping or tearing your toenail, as this sets the stage for the nail to grow down into your skin.
Call the office today or set up an appointment using the website to get more information on ingrown toenails.