Ingrown toenails are an all too common ailment of the feet. They can happen at any age, but it seems that some people are more prone than others to getting them. When you require a podiatrist in Elgin and Chicago, IL, you can count on Dr. Supreet Ghuman of Prairie Foot And Ankle to provide the services you need.
Ingrown toenails can be caused by the shape of the nail and may be hereditary. Ingrown toenails tend to run in families. They may also be caused by shoes that crowd the toes. Wearing shoes that allow your toes enough room can help avoid ingrown toenails.
Treating Ingrown Toenails at Home
When you have a simple case of ingrown toenail, they can be treated at home. The very first thing to do is to soak your feet in warm water. Some people like to use Epsom salt in the water and that can't hurt it isn't a bad option. Once the toenail is softened by the soaking, you can try to pull it away from where it is growing into the skin. It may take a while for the nail to get soft enough to move. You will need to soak it several times to get the desired result.
When it comes to cutting your toenail, be sure to cut it straight across. If you cut it lower at the sides it is more prone to growing into the toe.
When To See a Podiatrist
If your toe gets sore, swollen, red, or filled with pus, it is infected, and it is time to see a podiatrist. Especially if you have diabetes, any infection on your feet can be serious and needs attention immediately. The first line of treatment, may be an oral or topical antibiotic. This will be monitored to make sure the infection is under control. If this is an issue that tends to reoccur, it is time for a long term solution.
Surgery may be recommended by a podiatrist in Elgin and Chicago, IL to solve the problem of an ingrown toenail. The portion of the nail that is growing into the skin can be removed with the hope that it will grow back in correctly. If it has become a chronic condition reappearing again and again, then part of the nail can be removed along with the root of the nail, and then the nail won't grow back in that area. If necessary the entire nail can be removed.
Contact Dr. Ghuman of Prairie Foot And Ankle when you need a Podiatrist in Elgin and Chicago, IL. Give the office a call at (224) 227-6973 to make an appointment.