Ingrown nails can be a painful condition that cause an infection and provide a situation where the patient cannot where shoes. This nail condition is usually caused when the width of the nail grows wider than its borders. As the nail grows, it can cut into the sides of the borders and sometimes, the patient will try to cut the nail. The skin can get cut due to this “bathroom” surgery if it is performed.
Patients will present to the office with severe pain on the edges of the nail. They will complain of redness, swelling and pain. Sometimes, there can be some drainage from the edges of the nail. In the pediatric population, the child will visit the pediatrician where they are usually prescribed antibiotics. This will provide some relief.
The treatment for this condition can be simple as trimming the corner out to provide some pain relief. But if the infection is severe, a procedure called a nail avulsion will be performed. The toe is given local anesthetic and the offending border or borders are cut and removed. This is essential to allow all infected material to drain out. Sometimes, an antibiotic is prescribed if one is not already given to the patient. These procedures are very common and successful. This condition is common.
If this condition describes you or a person that may complain of a painful ingrown, please visit our office. Do not try to perform “bathroom” surgery on yourself. “Bathroom” surgery can cause you to end up having operating room surgery at your local hospital.
By: Dr. Jasen Langley
