Ingrown toenails are more than just a nuisance. When left untreated, they can quickly escalate into painful infections that may interfere with walking, daily activities, and even your overall health. At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, we often see patients who delayed seeking help, not realizing how rapidly a simple issue like an ingrown nail can worsen.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin—most commonly on the big toe. The initial symptoms include redness, tenderness, and swelling. At first, it may feel like a mild irritation, but if the nail continues to dig into the skin, it can break the skin and create an open wound. That’s when bacteria have a chance to enter and cause an infection.
The signs of an infected ingrown toenail are hard to miss. You might notice pus or drainage from the area, increased swelling, throbbing pain, or a warm sensation in the toe. In more serious cases, the skin can become discolored or even begin to grow over the nail. People with diabetes or poor circulation should be especially vigilant, as infections can progress more quickly and become harder to treat.
So, what should you do if you suspect an infection? The first step is not to self-treat beyond basic hygiene. Soaking your foot in warm water and keeping the area clean can provide some relief, but you should avoid digging into the nail or cutting it yourself, which can make the problem worse. Instead, schedule an appointment at Bellagio Foot & Ankle. We can safely remove the ingrown portion of the nail, prescribe antibiotics if necessary, and advise you on proper nail care to prevent future issues.
Recurring ingrown nails may need a more permanent solution, such as a partial nail avulsion or matrixectomy, which removes part of the nail and its root. These procedures are minimally invasive and can prevent chronic problems.
Early treatment is the best way to avoid complications. If your toe is red, painful, or draining fluid, don’t wait. Reach out to Bellagio Foot & Ankle—we’re here to help you heal quickly and comfortably, with expert care you can trust.
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Ingrown toenails are more than just a nuisance. When left untreated, they can quickly escalate into painful infections that may interfere with walking, daily activities, and even your overall health. At Bellagio Foot & Ankle, we often see patients who delayed seeking help, not realizing how rapidly a simple issue like an ingrown nail can worsen.
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin—most commonly on the big toe. The initial symptoms include redness, tenderness, and swelling. At first, it may feel like a mild irritation, but if the nail continues to dig into the skin, it can break the skin and create an open wound. That’s when bacteria have a chance to enter and cause an infection.
The signs of an infected ingrown toenail are hard to miss. You might notice pus or drainage from the area, increased swelling, throbbing pain, or a warm sensation in the toe. In more serious cases, the skin can become discolored or even begin to grow over the nail. People with diabetes or poor circulation should be especially vigilant, as infections can progress more quickly and become harder to treat.
So, what should you do if you suspect an infection? The first step is not to self-treat beyond basic hygiene. Soaking your foot in warm water and keeping the area clean can provide some relief, but you should avoid digging into the nail or cutting it yourself, which can make the problem worse. Instead, schedule an appointment at Bellagio Foot & Ankle. We can safely remove the ingrown portion of the nail, prescribe antibiotics if necessary, and advise you on proper nail care to prevent future issues.
Recurring ingrown nails may need a more permanent solution, such as a partial nail avulsion or matrixectomy, which removes part of the nail and its root. These procedures are minimally invasive and can prevent chronic problems.
Early treatment is the best way to avoid complications. If your toe is red, painful, or draining fluid, don’t wait. Reach out to Bellagio Foot & Ankle—we’re here to help you heal quickly and comfortably, with expert care you can trust.