Children can develop ingrown toenails in their feet from even the simplest of mistakes. For example, one of the most common ways a child develops an ingrown toenail is when his or her nails are cut too short. To prevent these ingrown toenails, cut their nails evenly and avoid trimming them down excessively. Keep in mind ingrown nails can also occur if a child wears socks and shoes that are too small for his or her feet.

Other cases of ingrown toenails can simply be caused by a genetic predisposition to curved nails. No matter the cause of the ingrown toenail, do not attempt to treat this condition at home. Removing an ingrown nail with a “bathroom surgery” can lead to a bacterial infection.

Ingrown toenails are terribly uncomfortable, and in the worst cases surgery might be required to get rid of them. If you think you have an ingrown toenail, consult with podiatrist Dr. Edwin Hart III of Maryland. Dr. Hart will confirm your diagnosis and do everything he can to treat your problem.

Ingrown Toenails Causes

Ingrown toenails occur when a toenail grows sideways into the bed of the nail, causing pain, swelling, and possibly infection.

There are a number of risk factors for ingrown toenails. Some include cutting your nails too short, participating in strenuous sports, diabetes, obesity, and fungal infection. Some are genetically predisposed to ingrown nails, although wearing ill-fitting or damp shoes can exacerbate the problem.

Treatment

There are a number of steps you can take to treat ingrown nails:

-Let your toenails grow out
-Soak the toes in hot water with antibiotic soap or Epsom salts
-Placing a piece of cotton under the affected nail may allow the toe to grow up instead of into the nail bed
-Rest with your feet up

If however, your pain is severe, or you see red streaks running up your leg, you should see a podiatrist. Your podiatrist may make a small incision and remove part of the toe nail to relieve the pressure. A local anesthetic may be used to lessen the discomfort of the operation.  Topical medication may also be prescribed to prevent the regrowth of the problem nail.

If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office in Bethlehem, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies to meet all your needs.

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