How your podiatrist in New Albany, IN, can help when you have an ingrown toenail
Ingrown toenails are painful and ugly. They can make walking painful too. The good news is you can do a lot to prevent ingrown toenails. If you do develop an ingrown toenail, your podiatrist can help.
Dr. Zahid Ladha at Foot First Podiatry in New Albany, IN, offers a wide range of foot care services, including treatment of ingrown toenails.
You are at greater risk of developing an ingrown toenail if you:
- Have toenails that curve under naturally
- Cut your toenails too short or round the corners
- Experience an injury or trauma to your toes
- Acquire a bacterial or fungal infection
- Wear shoes that are too narrow and crush your toes together
You can help prevent ingrown toenails. Remember to:
- Always cut toenails straight across and never round the corners
- Don’t cut your toenails too short
- Always wear supportive shoes with plenty of toe room
You can tell if you have an ingrown toenail because:
- Your toe will look dark and swollen
- You will feel pressure underneath the toenail from fluid and inflammation
- You may see pus coming out from under your toenail
If you think you have an ingrown toenail, you can try:
- Soaking your toe in warm water every day
- Cushioning your toe by wrapping it with bandages
- Wearing open-toed shoes or sandals to give your toe a chance to heal
For stubborn ingrown toenails, it’s best to seek out the services of your podiatrist, who may recommend:
- Topical or oral antibiotics to eliminate bacteria causing the infection
- Gently lift the toenail so it can grow freely
- Removing all or part of the nail so a healthy nail can grow in its place
You don’t have to suffer from an ingrown toenail when relief is just a phone call away. To learn more about the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatment of an ingrown toenail, 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!