Ingrown toenails, a common condition that can cause pain and discomfort, occur when the edge of your toenail grows into the surrounding skin. This typically happens on the big toe, but other toes can also be affected.
Causes of Ingrown Toenails
- Improper Toenail Trimming: Cutting your toenails too short or rounding the edges can encourage the nail to grow into the skin.
- Tight Footwear: Shoes that squeeze your toes together, such as high heels or shoes with narrow toe boxes, can put pressure on the nails and force them to grow abnormally.
- Injury: Stubbing your toe or dropping something heavy on your foot can damage the nail and lead to an ingrown toenail.
- Nail Shape: Some people are simply more prone to ingrown toenails due to the natural shape or thickness of their nails.
- Genetics: A family history of ingrown toenails can increase your risk.
- Poor Foot Hygiene: Not keeping your feet clean and dry can create an environment where ingrown toenails are more likely to develop.
Symptoms of Ingrown Toenails
- Pain: This is often the first and most noticeable symptom.
- Redness and Swelling: The skin around the ingrown nail will be inflamed.
- Tenderness: The area will be sensitive to touch.
- Pus or Discharge: In severe cases, an infection may develop, leading to pus or a foul-smelling discharge.
