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An ingrown fingernail occurs when the nail grows into the surrounding skin, causing pain, redness, and swelling. Common causes include improper nail trimming, trauma, and fungal infections.
Ingrown fingernails occur when the edges or corners of a nail grow into the surrounding skin. This often results in pain, swelling, and sometimes infection.
Nails are composed of a protein called keratin, the same substance that makes up hair and the outer layer of skin. They form as layers of keratinized cells push to the surface of the finger. Normally, nails grow straight out from the nail bed, with ridges on the nails matching the skin ridges below, securing the nails in place.
However, if the shape of your nail changes or if the nail is not trimmed properly, the connecting ridges may weaken. This weakening can cause the nail to grow into the sides or corners of the skin, leading to an ingrown nail. The condition is less common in fingernails than toenails, but it can still cause significant discomfort and complications if not addressed promptly. When a nail grows into the surrounding skin, it creates a wound that can easily become infected. The body responds to this irritation with inflammation, which causes the area to become red, swollen, and painful.
If bacteria enter the wound, an ingrown fingernail infection can develop, leading to more severe symptoms such as pus drainage and increased pain. This scenario often requires medical attention.
Recognizing the symptoms of ingrown fingernails early can help you seek timely treatment and prevent complications. Common symptoms of an ingrown fingernail include:
You can use an online tool Symptom Checker to help identify symptoms but always follow up with a healthcare provider for a definitive diagnosis and treatment plan.
Just 3 simple steps to efficiently understand and manage your health symptoms online.
If left untreated, ingrown fingernails can lead to several complications. Understanding these potential issues can help you take preventive measures and seek prompt treatment when needed.
An ingrown fingernail can cause a nail fold infection known as paronychia. This condition involves the infection of the tissues surrounding the nail, typically caused by bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus or fungi such as Candida.
According to Medscape, Paronychia accounts for 35% of hand infections, making it the most common hand infection in the United States.
Symptoms of paronychia include pain, redness, and swelling around the nail.
Ingrown fingernails can lead to or result from a fungal infection called onychomycosis. Onychomycosis is estimated to affect 10% of the global population and represents up to 50% of all nail diseases, MDPI states.
This infection can cause the nail to thicken, discolor, and become misshapen. Fungal infections are persistent and can make the nail more prone to becoming ingrown. Proper nail hygiene and treatment of fungal infections are crucial to prevent recurring issues.
If an ingrown fingernail becomes infected and is not treated, the infection can spread, leading to more severe complications such as abscess formation. An abscess is a collection of pus that can develop around the nail and cause significant pain and swelling. In such cases, medical intervention is necessary to drain the abscess and treat the infection.
Chronic ingrown fingernails can lead to permanent damage to the nail and surrounding tissue. Repeated infections and inflammation can cause scarring and deformity of the nail. In severe cases, the nail may need to be partially or completely removed to prevent ongoing problems.
For mild cases of ingrown fingernails, several effective home remedies can help alleviate pain and promote healing. Here are some practical tips you can apply:
Soak your finger in warm, soapy water for 10 to 20 minutes, three to four times a day. This helps reduce swelling and relieves pain. Adding a bit of Epsom salt to the water can also help with inflammation.
After soaking, apply an antibiotic or antifungal cream to the affected area. This can help prevent infection and promote healing. Make sure to keep the finger clean and dry between treatments.
Using a clean piece of dental floss or a sterile cotton swab, gently lift the edge of the ingrown nail. Place a small piece of cotton or dental floss under the nail to encourage it to grow above the skin. Change the cotton or floss daily to keep the area clean.
Inserting a small piece of cotton or gauze under the ingrown edge can help relieve pressure and guide the nail to grow correctly. Ensure that you do this gently to avoid causing further pain or damage.
A healthcare provider may lift the nail and insert a small wedge of medicated cotton under the ingrown edge. This method helps relieve pressure and guides the nail to grow correctly. It is typically combined with advice on proper nail care to prevent recurrence.
If an abscess has formed, your doctor will need to drain it. This procedure involves numbing the area with local anesthesia, making a small incision to drain the pus, and possibly placing a small piece of gauze to keep the incision open for continued drainage. Proper aftercare instructions will be provided to prevent further infection.
In severe or recurrent cases, a portion of the nail may need to be surgically removed. This procedure, known as nail avulsion, involves numbing the area and removing the ingrown portion of the nail. Sometimes, a chemical or laser treatment is used to destroy part of the nail matrix to prevent regrowth in the problematic area.
In cases of infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or antifungal medications to treat the underlying cause. These medications can be oral or topical, depending on the severity and type of infection.
The main symptoms of an ingrown fingernail include pain, redness, swelling, and tenderness around the nail. In severe cases, you may also notice pus or drainage, indicating an infection.
Effective home remedies for treating an ingrown fingernail include soaking the affected finger in warm water, applying antibiotic or antifungal cream, gently lifting the edge of the nail, and using cotton wedges to relieve pressure.
Signs of an infected ingrown fingernail include increased pain, severe redness, swelling, and the presence of pus or drainage. If you notice these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly.
If you suspect your ingrown fingernail is infected, it's important to consult a healthcare provider. They may prescribe antibiotics or recommend other treatments to address the infection and prevent further complications.
Throbbing pain in an ingrown fingernail often indicates an infection or significant inflammation. This type of pain requires prompt attention and possibly professional medical treatment to prevent worsening of the condition.
While it may not be possible to completely get rid of an ingrown fingernail overnight, you can reduce discomfort by soaking the finger in warm water, applying an antibiotic cream, and elevating the affected finger. Seek professional help for persistent issues.
Ingrown fingernail removal is necessary when home treatments fail, and the condition becomes severe or recurrent. A healthcare provider may perform a procedure to remove part of the nail and prevent future issues.
Ingrown fingernails, though common, can cause significant discomfort and potential complications if not addressed properly. Understanding the causes, recognizing the symptoms early, and applying effective treatments can help manage and prevent this condition.
Proper nail care and hygiene, along with timely medical intervention when needed, are key to maintaining healthy nails and avoiding the pain associated with ingrown fingernails. Always consult with a healthcare provider for persistent issues or if you have underlying health conditions that could complicate treatment.
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