An ingrown toenail is when the corner of a toenail grows into the skin next to it. It usually occurs when the nail is cut too short, and the skin grows over the nail. It happens most often in the big toe. Ingrown toenails can become painful, swollen and infected.
Would you like to schedule an appointment with Pediatric Surgery?
What are the signs and symptoms of ingrown toenails?
Common symptoms of ingrown toenails include:
- Pain in the toe
- Redness or swelling around the edge of the nail
If your child has any of the following symptoms, the nail may be infected:
- Pus or discharge from the area
- A bad smell
- A feeling of warmth in the area
What causes ingrown toenails?
Ingrown toenails are most often caused by cutting the nail too short. Other causes can include:
- Ripping the nail instead of cutting it, or cutting it in a rounded shape
- Wearing shoes that are too tight
- Using the toe for a repeated activity, such as kicking a ball
How are ingrown toenails treated?
In many cases, the ingrown toenail can be treated at home by soaking the foot in a warm saltwater bath a few times a day. But if the toenail becomes infected, you may need to visit your child’s doctor for treatment.
- Antibiotic medicines may help if the toe is infected.
- The doctor may remove the corner of the nail and drain the pus from the area.
Sometimes surgery is needed to remove a section of the nail or the whole nail.
Doctors at Connecticut Children’s can determine the right plan if your child requires treatment for an ingrown toenail.