Should you cut out ingrown toenail?

Should you cut out ingrown toenail?

If a toenail is at risk of growing into the skin, learning how to cut it properly can prevent it from becoming ingrown. If a nail is already ingrown, however, a person should avoid cutting it at home, as this can make it worse or cause infections. Ingrown toenails can be very painful.

What does a ingrown toenail look like?

What Does an Ingrown Toenail Look Like? Ingrown toenails cause redness and swelling around the affected toe area. The site may be painful to the touch. An infection may develop if the condition progresses, and the area may ooze pus.

When should you go to the doctor for an ingrown toenail?

Call your doctor if your toe is red, warm, swollen, or drains pus, or if there are red streaks leading from your toe. Your doctor might give you antibiotics. If your toenail is very ingrown, your doctor might suggest minor surgery to remove all or part of the ingrown nail. He or she may refer you to a podiatrist.

How long does it take an ingrown toenail to heal?

After 24 hours, your toe can be kept clean by running warm soapy water over it and patting it dry. Keep it covered until fully healed with a nonstick dressing. You'll be able to return to normal activities after a few days, but avoid running and other strenuous activity for about two weeks.

Does Neosporin help ingrown toenails?

Most ingrown toenails can be treated by soaking the foot in warm, soapy water and applying a topical antibiotic ointment, such as polymyxin/neomycin (one brand: Neosporin). Your doctor can also put cotton wisps, dental floss, or splints under the edge of the ingrown toenail between the toenail and the skin.