Ingrown toenails happen when the edge of your toenails curve and grow inwards. The toenails may cause swelling, redness, and pain. Both men and women may experience the problem. Your Midtown East ingrown toenail can have various causes. They include:
- Wearing tight shoes
- Cutting the toenails too short or at an angle
- Toenail trauma
- Whatever the cause, the following are a few remedies that may help you at home.
- Warm, Soap Water
Soak the affected foot in warm, soapy water for about 20 minutes every day. It is a great way to minimize pain, discomfort, and swelling. You may add Epsom salts to the warm water for faster relief.
- Antibiotic Ointment
An over-the-counter antibiotic cream may heal your infection. Apply it to the affected toenail and follow the manufacturer’s instruction. Common creams and ointments include Bactroban and Neosporin.
- Apple Cider Vinegar
Consider soaking the affected foot in apple cider vinegar. Its pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic abilities make it a popular choice. With this remedy, you need to mix ¼ cup of apple cider vinegar with a basin of warm water. After your soak, dry your feet thoroughly.
- Comfortable Socks and Shoes
Wearing well-fitting socks and shoes can help you feel better. Tight-fitting and uncomfortable shoes are the most common cause of ingrown toenails. Change your shoes and ensure that you have enough space in the toe bed. When going through the healing process, do not wear shoes as they may exert excessive pressure on your toenails.
- Cotton or Dental Floss
Consider placing small bits of waxed dental floss or cotton under the affected toenail. Some medical groups suggest that it may promote proper nail growth. Soak your cotton in alcohol before application to reduce the risk of infection.
- Toe Braces
Toe braces are made from adhesive composite material. They are thin and usually glued to your toe. The braces protect your skin from damage by sharp, ingrown nails.
- Over the Counter PainKillers
Pain relievers are excellent for treating pain when you have ingrown toenails. Ibuprofen is one of the best options when you have some swelling. It treats both pain and swelling.
- Oral Antibiotics
Oral antibiotics are often prescribed for ingrown toenails. However, there is limited scientific evidence that it can improve the condition. However, it is great for treating infections that may arise from ingrown toenails. Common signs of infection include:
- Foul odor
- Throbbing pain
- Increased swelling and redness
- Warmness in the area around your toes
- Pus
- Nail Removal
Even though home remedies are great, they do not always work. You may require full or partial removal. Your doctor only removes your nail when everything else fails.
Even though home remedies for ingrown toenails work, you should not rely on them completely. You should only use home remedies while you wait to see a doctor. If you have diabetes or any conditions that may affect circulation, do not attempt to treat the infection at home. Without proper circulation, an infection can get out of hand fast.
