The throb from an ingrown toenail can make people desperate fast or send them scurrying to the internet for quick-at-home fixes. However, usually these best intentions turn what would have been a small concern into an infection requiring emergent care.
The Cotton Ball Trap
While it may seem logical to place cotton under the edge of your nails, you are also creating a breeding ground for bacteria in such an environment. Moistness creates an infectious environment and when the cotton gets pushed down into your tissue it can be difficult to get out without help.
Dangerous DIY Surgery
Cutting a V in the center of the nail is probably one of the most enduring online rumours. This doesn’t remove pressure and also makes the nail itself more brittle (which could have it cracking in two ways) Similarly, the aggressive trimming of the ingrown edge usually will cause many nail fragments digging deeper into your skin.
The Infection Accelerators
However, soaking feet in hydrogen peroxide or applying antibiotic ointment under bandages may seem antiseptic but these create overly moist conditions that soften tissue even more plus encourage ingrowth. In fact, “natural” remedies like tea tree oil can even cause chemical burns on red skin.
When Home Care Becomes Harmful
Improper abrasion of the skin or bed, contaminated instruments and failure to recognise signs of infection (redness spreading beyond that toe; discharge such as pus; red streaking) can potentially be complicated requiring antibiotic intervention or possible surgical management.
The Safe Approach
If your ingrown toenail does not get better, then it has become a chronic condition for which professional consultation and treatment is recommended. For a Podiatrist Gloucester, visit https://www.propodiatry.co.uk/podiatry/podiatrist-gloucester
Your podiatrist can painlessly remove the nail section that’s in danger and reduce future problems, most often under local anesthesia done as a simple office procedure that is significantly less painful than other home remedies.
