Introduction
Ingrown toenail, medically known as onychocryptosis, is a common condition that occurs when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin, creating pain, inflammation, and even infection. This condition affects people of all ages and can occur in different toenails. If you suffer from ingrown toenail, don’t worry, you are not alone. In this article, we will discuss how to fix an ingrown toenail using natural remedies and professional treatment options.
Complete Guide on How to Treat an Ingrown Toenail at Home
Before we jump into the natural remedies for ingrown toenail, it’s important to understand the symptoms. Some common symptoms of ingrown toenail include tenderness, pain, swelling, and redness around the affected toenail. If the condition is left untreated, it can lead to infection and pus.
Natural Remedies to Fix Ingrown Toenail at Home
There are many natural remedies you can use to fix an ingrown toenail at home. Here are some of the most effective ones:
1. Soaking the affected foot in warm water
This is a simple yet effective remedy to fix an ingrown toenail. Soaking your feet in warm water for 15-20 minutes twice a day can reduce swelling and pain. It will also help soften the affected toenail, making it easier to apply other remedies.
2. Applying Epsom salt
Epsom salt has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help soothe the affected area and reduce pain. Mix Epsom salt with warm water and soak your feet for at least 15 minutes.
3. Applying coconut oil or tea tree oil
Both coconut oil and tea tree oil have natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help reduce swelling and infection. Apply coconut or tea tree oil to the affected area and let it soak in for at least 30 minutes.
4. Using a cotton ball to lift the affected nail
If the toenail is digging into the surrounding skin, use a cotton ball or dental floss to gently lift it up and away from the skin. This will alleviate pain and prevent further damage to the skin.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Each Method
For each natural remedy, follow these step-by-step instructions:
– Soaking the affected foot: Fill a basin with warm water and soak your feet for 15-20 minutes, twice a day.
– Applying Epsom salt: Mix 2-3 tablespoons of Epsom salt with warm water in a basin and soak your feet for at least 15 minutes.
– Applying coconut or tea tree oil: Apply a few drops of oil to the affected area and massage gently using circular motions. Let it soak in for at least 30 minutes.
– Using a cotton ball: Roll a small piece of cotton or dental floss and gently lift the affected toenail. Don’t force it if it’s too painful.
Precautionary Measures
When treating your ingrown toenail at home, it’s important to take some precautionary measures to prevent further complications. These include:
– Keeping your feet clean and dry.
– Wearing comfortable shoes that fit well and don’t put pressure on the affected toenail.
– Avoiding tight socks or stockings that restrict blood flow.
Ingrown Toenail: Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies
Now that you know how to fix an ingrown toenail using natural remedies, let’s discuss the causes and symptoms.
Definition and Causes of Ingrown Toenails
Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain and inflammation. This condition can be caused by:
– Incorrect toenail trimming: cutting the nails too short or rounding the edges can cause the nail to grow into the skin.
– Tight or poorly fitting shoes: shoes that don’t fit well can put pressure on the toenail and cause it to grow abnormally.
– Foot injuries: trauma or repeated stress to the toenail can cause it to grow into the skin.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenail
Some common symptoms of ingrown toenail include:
– Pain and tenderness around the toenail.
– Swelling and redness around the affected area.
– Infection and pus may develop in severe cases.
Natural Remedies to Fix Ingrown Toenail at Home
Here are some other natural remedies you can use to fix ingrown toenail:
1. Soaking in warm water
This is one of the easiest and most effective remedies for ingrown toenail. Soak your feet in warm water for 15-20 minutes twice a day. This will soften the skin and make it easier to lift the toenail.
2. Applying apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling. Mix equal parts of apple cider vinegar and warm water and soak your feet for 20-30 minutes twice a day.
3. Applying aloe vera
Aloe vera has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe the affected area. Apply fresh aloe vera gel to the affected toenail and let it soak in for at least 30 minutes.
4. Applying garlic oil
Garlic oil has natural antibiotic properties that can help prevent infection and reduce swelling. Crush a few garlic cloves, mix with olive oil, and apply to the affected area. Let it sit for 30 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
Precautionary Measures to Prevent Ingrown Toenail
To prevent ingrown toenail from occurring, follow these precautionary measures:
– Trim your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short.
– Wear shoes that fit well and don’t put pressure on your toes.
– Keep your feet clean and dry.
Quick Fixes for Ingrown Toenails
If you need a quick fix to ease the pain and inflammation, try these remedies:
Quick solutions to fix ingrown toenail within a few hours
– Soaking in warm water: Fill a basin with warm water and soak your feet for at least 20 minutes. This will reduce swelling and ease pain.
– Using dental floss: Gently lift the affected nail using dental floss or a small piece of cotton. This will help the nail grow over the skin instead of into it.
– Applying iodine to treat the infected toenail: Iodine has antiseptic properties that can help prevent infection. Apply iodine to the affected area using a sterile gauze pad.
– Using Shea butter: Shea butter has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce swelling. Apply Shea butter to the affected toe and massage gently using circular motions.
Precautionary measures
After applying quick fixes, make sure to keep your feet clean and dry. Avoid wearing tight shoes or socks. See a healthcare professional if the condition persists or worsens.
Do’s and Don’ts of Ingrown Toenail Treatment
When treating ingrown toenail, there are some do’s and don’ts you should keep in mind:
What to Do When Treating Ingrown Toenail
– Soak your feet in warm water several times a day.
– Trim your toenails straight across to prevent them from growing into the skin.
– Wear comfortable shoes that fit well and don’t put pressure on the affected toe.
What Not to Do When Treating Ingrown Toenail
– Don’t try to dig out the nail or cut the skin yourself.
– Don’t wear tight shoes or socks that restrict blood flow.
– Don’t ignore the symptoms or delay treatment, as it can lead to infection and more serious complications.
Tips for Prevention of Ingrown Toenail
– Trim your toenails straight across and don’t cut them too short.
– Wear well-fitted shoes that don’t put pressure on your toes.
– Keep your feet clean and dry.
Professional Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails
If your ingrown toenail does not respond to home remedies or it becomes infected, it’s time to seek professional help. Here are some professional treatments available:
When to Seek Professional Help
You should seek professional help if:
– You have severe pain or inflammation.
– Pus or bleeding occurs around the toenail.
– You have diabetes, nerve damage, or circulation problems in the feet.
Types of Professional Treatments Available
– Partial toenail removal: In this procedure, the healthcare professional will remove only the portion of the toenail that is digging into the skin.
– Total nail removal: In severe cases, the entire toenail may need to be removed to allow the skin to heal.
– Laser surgery: This is a less invasive procedure that uses laser technology to remove the ingrown toenail without cutting the skin.
How to Choose the Right Healthcare Professional to Treat Ingrown Toenail
When choosing a healthcare professional for ingrown toenail treatment, look for someone who is experienced in foot care and has a good reputation. You can ask for recommendations from your primary care doctor or friends and family.
Precautionary Measures for Professional Treatments
After undergoing professional treatment, make sure to follow the healthcare professional’s instructions for care and recovery. Keep your feet clean and dry, and avoid wearing tight shoes or socks.
Conclusion
Ingrown toenail is a common condition that can cause pain and discomfort. Fortunately, there are many natural remedies and professional treatment options available to fix it. In this article, we have provided a comprehensive guide on how to fix an ingrown toenail. If the condition persists or if you are experiencing severe pain, seek medical assistance right away.
