Ingrown toenails
An ingrown nail is one of the few foot problems that will not wait. It hurts constantly, it gets worse, and digging at it yourself almost always makes it angrier.
Getting the pain down
In most cases the offending spike of nail can be removed at the visit and the relief is immediate. If it is infected, that needs treating too, and sometimes a GP and antibiotics alongside.
Why it keeps coming back
Usually the nail shape, sometimes how it has been cut, sometimes footwear. If the same toe has done this three times, the shape is the cause and trimming it again will not be the last time.
The permanent fix
A minor procedure under local anaesthetic removes the offending edge for good. It takes about an hour, you walk out afterwards, and it does not recur in the great majority of cases. It is a clinic procedure rather than a home one, and I will tell you if that is what you actually need.
Common questions
- Can you treat an ingrown nail at a home visit?
- The immediate pain, yes, almost always. The permanent procedure needs a clinical setting.
- It looks infected. Should I see a doctor first?
- If there is spreading redness, heat or you feel unwell, see your GP promptly. Otherwise a podiatrist is the right first call.