How to treat ingrown toenails

							How to treat ingrown toenails

A nail, also known as onychocryptosis, occurs when part of the nail begins to
grow in the surrounding skin. The result is a painful skin pressure that can
sometimes lead to infection.

While ingrown nails can occur for various reasons, the most common is
improper nail clipping. Cut a nail too short encourages the skin along the
sides of the nail to fold over, which can lead to a nail.

Some ingrown toenails can be treated at home, but more severe ingrown
toenails may require medical treatment. As ingrown nails are often a
recurring problem, those who have experienced a nail before to take
preventive measures to avoid future problems.

If there is an infection or the condition persists, seek medical attention.

1. Fill the bowl with hot water deep enough to cover the infected nail when
placed into the bowl. If you choose to add tea tree oil, Betadine or Epsom
salts, water should be added at this time. Stir to dissolve, if necessary. Tea
tree oil is a natural anti bacterial treatment while a medical betadine anti
septic solution found in most pharmacies. Epsom salts containing
magnesium, which helps in reducing inflammation.

2. Soak the affected nail. Soaking area helps reduce swelling and
inflammation. It also softens the skin surrounding the realization of a nail
trimming easier.

3. Remove the nail after 10-15 minutes of soaking and thoroughly dry the
area.

4. Carefully and gently lift the nail from the skin with nail clippers. The clip
claw directly, if necessary. Avoid nail Cut at an angle, and increase the
chances of a recurring problem of the nail.

5. Continue soaking the feet to 4 times a day for a week if cut straight
across the nail is not an option. If pain, swelling or tenderness persists
beyond one week, should immediately seek medical attention to avoid
infection.