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Ingrown Toenails and Fungus in the Nail
The medical term for ingrown toe nails is mychocryptosis, and is a painful disorder that occurs when the skin grows over the toenail , and the nail in turn grown into the skin. This condition can cause great discomfort, and can lead to infections in the toe. Some people have chronic cases of ingrown toenail, with continuous occurrences of infection and pain. Burning sensations in the toe, redness, irritation and swelling can result from an ingrown toenail.
There are many possible causes of ingrown toenail, causing the nail to grow downwards into the skin. Constrictive pantyhose or footwear with small toe boxes can worsen the symptoms. If you observe swelling or redness on the sides of the toenail, contact your physician to determine for infections. Ingrown toenails are ideal environments for bacteria and fungus growth. Without treatment, the punctured skin provides access for the bacteria to enter, and grow. If the effects of ingrown toenails have increased to this point, contact your physician for antibiotic treatment.
Ingrown toenails should be treated as soon as possible. Try taking these steps towards treatment.
- immerse the affected foot in warm water.
- Dry your feet and toes thoroughly after this treatment.
- Rub a mild antiseptic over the affected region(s).
- Dress the affected toe or toes.
If the inflammation is excessive, if swelling is present, and the discomfort has progressed to the point of pain, then this problem should be treated by a doctor. An infected nail may be trimmed and removed through very minor outpatient surgery. A podiatrist with a specialty in surgery may remove the over grown skin and subsequently clean the area, and treat the infection. In order to avoid future cases, try to protect the feet from hard impacts with objects and wear shoes with comfortable spaces for the toes to move.
Another quality method of prevention would include cutting the nails properly. Cut the nail straight across, and avoid cutting too close. If the nail is too short, the nail is more likely to grow inwards into the skin.
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Athletes Foot
