Are You Ignoring An Ingrown Toenail?

Have you ever wondered what could go wrong if you ignored your ingrown toenail? While it is downright uncomfortable, there’s a more dangerous detail: infection. If someone fails to treat a worsening ingrown toenail and ignores the signs of an active infection, there can be some serious consequences. Before we get to what could possibly go wrong, let’s talk more about this common condition.

The Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists treat patients with this condition quite often. Most commonly, patients will schedule an appointment to allow a podiatrist to have a closer look at the toenail. During the visit, a podiatrist can help a patient find a treatment plan and even detect if the toenail is in danger of becoming infected. 

So, how can an ingrown toenail become infected?

Dig into the details

A patient has an ingrown toenail when their toenail begins to grow into the surrounding skin. The condition commonly affects the big toe. If you can imagine, the feeling is far from comfortable as a toenail cuts into the skin. The danger with this growth is that a cut or open wound can now exist. With a cut, comes a risk for infection.

Spot the signs

Are you looking for another reason to check your feet daily? Here’s one: detect a developing problem. The common signs of an infection are redness, swelling, pain, and discharge. If you have an ingrown toenail, we recommend scheduling an appointment with a podiatrist. If you haven’t experienced these symptoms, great. If you recognize these warning signs, seek medical care quickly.

Imagine the impact

We can often underestimate the dangers of infection. A patient can develop a viral infection or a bacterial infection. For patients with diabetes, the common concern of poor circulation worsens the situation. Circulation is one of the ways the body promotes healing. If you want to stay ahead of infection, watch your toes closely. Also, never pull or tear your toenail.

When you schedule an appointment with our doctors, our first priority is to prevent or treat the infection. We’ll work to keep your feet healthy and ready to return to normal activities.

With locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, we have vast experience treating issues of the ankles and feet. Our team includes Dr. Christopher M. Funk, Dr. Bradley A. Whitaker, Dr. Peter C. Merrill, and Dr. Zeno Pfau. Our doctors offer the greatest in technologically advanced methods and cutting-edge medical treatments. Please call 520-575-0800 and make an appointment.