How your podiatrist in New Albany, IN, can help with an ingrown toenail
Ingrown toenails can hurt. They can make it difficult and painful to put on shoes. They are also a common problem which can be treated by your podiatrist. Dr. Zahid Ladha at Foot First Podiatry in New Albany, IN, provides a wide range of foot and ankle services, including treatment for an ingrown toenail.
So, how do you know if you have an ingrown toenail? You will:
- Notice that your toe looks swollen and dark
- Experience pain, pressure, and throbbing under your toenail
- See blood or pus coming out from underneath your toenail
If you notice any of the signs or symptoms listed above, you may get some relief by trying a few simple home remedies like these:
- Soaking your toe in warm water several times each day
- Placing dental floss under your toenail to help the toenail grow above your skin
- Applying antibiotic cream and bandaging your toenail
- Taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory and pain medications
- Wearing sandals or open shoes until your toe heals
Ingrown toenails can take a long time to heal on their own. A better solution is to seek out the help of an expert–your podiatrist. Professional treatments for ingrown toenails include:
- Lifting and separating your toenail from your skin
- Trimming the ingrown part of your toenail
- Removing your toenail to stimulate growth of a healthy toenail
- Laser treatment to remove part or all of your toenail
Remember that you can do a lot to prevent ingrown toenails. You need to:
- Always cut your toenails straight across, with no rounded corners
- Avoid cutting your toenails too short, so they don’t grow into your skin
- Wear closed, protective shoes to avoid injuries or trauma to your toes
- Wear shoes with adequate room, so your toes aren’t squeezed together
You don’t have to suffer from an ingrown toenail. To find out more about prevention and treatment of ingrown toenails, call Dr. Zahid Ladha at Foot First Podiatry in New Albany, IN. You can reach him in the office by calling (812) 945-9221, so call now.