Avoiding Painful Consequences: Complications of Untreated Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails may seem like a minor nuisance at first, but leaving them untreated can lead to serious complications that affect your daily life and overall foot health. From infections to chronic pain, understanding the potential risks of ignoring ingrown toenails is essential for taking proactive steps to address them. Below, Clifton Foot & Ankle Center offers insight into how you can manage ingrown toenails and avoid complications.

Infection:

• When the sharp edge of the toenail pierces the surrounding skin, bacteria can enter and cause an infection.
• Symptoms include redness, swelling, warmth, and pus drainage.
• In severe cases, the infection can spread to the underlying bone or soft tissue.

Abscess Formation:

• Abscesses are painful, swollen lumps of accumulated pus that can make walking or wearing shoes difficult.

Chronic Pain:

• Constant pressure and irritation from the ingrown nail can cause chronic inflammation and discomfort, making it painful to walk, stand, or wear shoes.

Changes in Nail Growth:

• Repeated episodes of ingrown toenails can disrupt the nail’s normal growth pattern.
• As the nail continues to grow into the surrounding skin, it becomes difficult to trim and manage them.
• In severe cases, ingrown toenails can cause permanent damage to the nail bed and surrounding tissues, resulting in disfigurement and chronic nail problems.

Impaired Mobility:

• Pain and discomfort from ingrown toenails can affect your daily mobility and quality of life.
• Addressing ingrown toenails promptly can allow you to resume your normal activities without pain or restriction.

Preventing and Managing Complications:

• Trim your toenails straight across and avoid cutting them too short to prevent ingrown toenails.
• Wear well-fitting shoes with plenty of room in the toe box to reduce pressure on the toes and minimize the risk of ingrown nails.
• Practice good foot hygiene, including washing your feet daily and wearing clean socks to prevent infection.

By understanding the potential risks and taking proactive steps to prevent and manage ingrown toenails, you can keep your feet happy, healthy, and pain-free. Consulting with a podiatrist is your best bet when it comes to treating ingrown toenails and helping to prevent complications. Dr. Kenneth R. Wilhelm at Clifton Foot & Ankle Center in Fairfax County, Virginia, is the expert you need to see for any foot-related ailments you’re experiencing. Set up an appointment today to find relief!