When you look up the definition of an ingrown toenail you will likely find that it is a medical condition that occurs when a toenail has begun to grow in a curved like manner into the skin of the nail, typically around the nail borders. As the toenail digs in further it will begin to cause lots of pain, redness, swelling, skin irritation, and even warming sensations within the toe.
As painful as this condition might sound, it is highly treatable and in most cases can be resolved in the comfort of your own home. However, if it has become infected, you should not play doctor but should instead talk with your physician to find out what other solutions they have available.
Four Simple Steps
Below you will find four simple steps that should help you in getting rid of your ingrown toenail. There are plenty of home remedies you can try for yourself, however, most who have suffered from this condition find that soaking your foot is the best option.
Step One
The first thing you want to do is measure out two cups of Epsom salt to about 32 oz of water at room temperature. Make sure that you place the bowl in a location that will be comfortable for your foot to rest and also that is stable so that the contents don’t tip over.
Step Two
Now you place your feet into the bowl and let it soak for about twenty to thirty minutes as this will remove the bacteria present within or around the toe and also clean the affected area. When you remove your foot be sure that you’re only using clean towels to dry it off so as to keep the location sanitary.
Step Three
Next you should take some hydrogen peroxide and pour it onto a cotton ball to thoroughly clean your toe. Be sure to clean it good but with care so that you don’t further puncture your skin or cause more pain. Clean away all the dirt so that the toe is cleaned and risks of infection are decreased.
If necessary, use more than one cotton ball so that you’re not spreading the dirt right back on the affected area of the toenail.
Step Four
From there all you do is repeat the above process at least twice per day so that the area can stay clean and free from infection. You will need to allow the toenail time to grow out so that it can begin to grow in the right direction. If after a while you don’t see any improvement you should immediately consult with your physician.
During the time that you’re allowing your foot to heal you should be sure to do things to prevent the affected area from getting close. This means wearing suitable footwear to keep the feet from getting warm and moist and also be sure to shower and change your socks daily to prevent further infection.
Again you should never try to clip the toenail on your own until it has grown outward a significant amount and you should never prolong medical attention if it is needed.
