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Ingrown Toenails
If it is early in
the course of the ingrown toenail, then home care may be successful in
preventing the need for surgery.
Soak the foot in warm
water 4 times a day. You do not need to add soap or antibacterial agents to
the water. Pharmacies usually carry special soak packs, like Pedi-Boro soak
packs or Epsom salt.
Wash the foot
including the affected area twice a day with soap and water. Keep the foot
clean and dry during the rest of the day.
Do not wear high
heels or tight-fitting shoes. Consider wearing sandals, if appropriate, until
the condition clears up.
Try to lift up the
corner of the nail that is digging into the skin. Take a small piece of
cotton or gauze and roll it between your fingers to form a small roll or
wick. Then place the roll between the nail and the skin to keep it elevated.
This is painful but is the most important part of home treatment. After every
soaking, try to push the roll a little farther in.
You may take a pain
reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen.If you see no
improvement within 3 days, call your doctor.
Medical Treatment
If no acute infection is found, then the
nail will be elevated and conservative treatment recommended. This consists of
warm soaks, proper shoes, and frequent cleaning of the nail.
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