While a direct fatality from an ingrown toenail is rare, serious complications can arise if the condition is left untreated. These complications stem from infections, particularly in individuals with certain underlying health conditions. Understanding the risks of an untreated ingrown toenail can help you recognize when to seek medical attention and prevent escalation.
Understanding Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding soft skin. This can cause pain, redness, and swelling around the affected area. Common causes include trimming toenails too short or rounding the edges instead of cutting them straight across.
Ill-fitting shoes that put pressure on the toes can also contribute to this condition. Trauma to the toe, such as stubbing it or having an object fall on it, and genetic predisposition can lead to ingrown toenails. For most healthy individuals, an ingrown toenail is a painful but manageable condition that improves with appropriate at-home care.
When Complications Become Dangerous
A seemingly minor ingrown toenail can lead to severe infections if left unaddressed. When the nail pierces the skin, it creates an entry point for bacteria, leading to localized infection characterized by increased pain, redness, swelling, warmth, or pus. If this bacterial infection spreads beyond the immediate area, it can develop into cellulitis, an infection of the deeper layers of the skin and underlying tissues. Cellulitis can cause the entire foot to become swollen, red, painful, and warm, and if untreated, it can spread through the toe and into the bone.
The infection can then progress to osteomyelitis, a severe bone infection that results in persistent pain and pus drainage. Bacteria from a severe infection can enter the bloodstream, leading to bacteremia, escalating to sepsis. Sepsis is a life-threatening response to an infection that affects the blood and body tissues, potentially causing organ failure. This systemic infection, if not promptly treated, is the primary pathway through which an untreated ingrown toenail could indirectly become fatal.
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of these severe complications. Individuals with diabetes are at higher risk due to compromised blood flow and nerve damage in their feet, which can hinder healing and mask injuries. Peripheral artery disease (PAD) also reduces blood circulation, making it harder for the body to fight off infection and heal wounds. Weakened immune systems, due to conditions or treatments, make individuals more susceptible to widespread infections. Nerve damage can also reduce sensation, preventing individuals from noticing the severity until an advanced infection develops.
Preventing Serious Issues
Preventing ingrown toenails and their potential complications involves consistent foot care. Proper nail trimming is a primary preventive measure; toenails should be cut straight across, not too short, and without rounding the corners. This method helps prevent the nail from growing into the skin.
Wearing appropriate footwear is important, such as shoes with a wide toe box that do not squeeze the toes. Maintaining good foot hygiene, including daily washing and thorough drying, especially between the toes, reduces the risk of infection. If signs of infection appear, such as increased pain, redness, swelling, pus, or fever, or if you have underlying health conditions like diabetes, seeking professional medical attention promptly is advisable. Home treatment is discouraged for severe cases or for individuals with risk factors, as a healthcare provider can offer proper treatment and prevent worsening.