Ingrown Toenail Removal
What is Ingrown Toenail Removal
Depending on the severity of an ingrown toe nail, in some cases, it can be treated at home. The most important thing to remember when it comes to an ingrown toenail is that an effect for prevention is worth a pound of cure!
Since an ingrown toenail can result from wearing tight fitting shoes, make sure that your footwear is comfortable and that there is adequate room to wiggle your toes. When trimming your toenails, be sure to cut the nail straight across rather than at an angle, especially if you have had an ingrown toenail in the past. A common myth associated with preventing an ingrown toenail is to cut a v-shape in the center of the nail. This technique is not only ineffective, but actually increases the chance of developing an ingrown toenail.
Self Care at home for Ingrown Toenail Removal
If you already have an ingrown toenail, the best way to remedy the problem is to soak your foot in warm salted water at least twice a day. This will soften the toenail and reduce swelling. After you have soaked the ingrown toenail, swab it with an antiseptic, such as hydrogen peroxide or iodine, to prevent infection. Next, take a piece of clean cotton and gently place it under the ingrown toenail so that it is raised. Finally, apply an antibacterial ointment to the ingrown toenail to prevent infection. Repeat these steps until the toenail has grown out and away from the cuticle.
Surgical Treatment for Ingrown Toenail
If there is excessive inflammation, swelling, pain and discharge, the toenail is probably infected and should be treated by a doctor. You may need to take oral or injection anti-biotics and the nail may need to be partially or completely removed. The doctor can surgically remove a portion of the nail, a portion of the underlying nail bed.