An ingrown toenail is a common, painful condition where the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This causes redness, swelling, and tenderness at the corner of the toe. Swimming is often possible with an ingrown toenail, but the decision requires a careful assessment of the toe’s current state and the type of water involved.
Assessing the Safety of Swimming
The primary factor determining if swimming is safe is the presence of an active infection in the toe. A mild ingrown toenail that is only slightly red and tender, without open wounds or drainage, generally poses a low risk for water exposure. The moisture from swimming can even soften the skin, which may temporarily relieve some pressure and discomfort around the nail edge.
Swimming is strongly discouraged if the toe shows signs of active infection. These signs include visible pus or liquid drainage, spreading redness, noticeable warmth, or severe throbbing pain. An open wound created by the ingrown nail provides a direct entry point for bacteria and other microorganisms found in water, greatly increasing the risk of a deep or spreading infection. If the skin is broken or weeping, swimming should be postponed until the area has healed or professional medical advice is sought.
Understanding Water Type and Risk
The environment in which you plan to swim affects the risk profile for an ingrown toenail. Chlorinated swimming pools are generally considered the lowest risk environment, as the chlorine acts as a disinfectant, reducing the overall bacterial load in the water. However, chlorine can be an irritant, and repeated exposure may dry out the skin, potentially increasing inflammation.
Natural bodies of water, such as lakes, rivers, and oceans, carry a substantially higher risk of infection for any compromised skin barrier. These waters are not chemically treated and contain various naturally occurring bacteria and pathogens. Swimming in any open water is best avoided entirely if the ingrown toenail has caused any break in the skin. Hot tubs also present a higher risk than pools, as the warm temperatures encourage bacterial growth.
Managing the Toe After Water Exposure
If you choose to swim with a mild, non-infected ingrown toenail, thorough post-activity hygiene is necessary to mitigate residual risk. The first step upon leaving the water is to dry the foot and toe completely and meticulously, ensuring no moisture remains trapped. This prevents the surrounding skin from becoming overly softened, a state known as maceration, which makes it more susceptible to bacterial invasion.
The toe area should then be gently cleaned with mild soap and clean, running water to remove any chemical residue or potential contaminants. After cleaning and drying, applying a topical antiseptic or antibiotic ointment to the affected area can provide a protective barrier. It is also recommended to wear open-toed footwear like sandals immediately after swimming to allow maximum air circulation around the toe until it is fully dry.
When to Seek Professional Help
There are warning signs that indicate the ingrown toenail requires professional medical intervention. You should consult a podiatrist or physician if the pain persists or worsens after two to three days of focused home care. Signs of a spreading infection, such as pus that does not resolve, or redness that starts to streak up the foot and ankle (cellulitis), demand immediate attention.
A doctor should also be seen if you develop a fever, as this can signal a systemic infection spreading beyond the toe. Individuals with underlying health conditions like diabetes or poor circulation must seek medical help immediately upon noticing any symptoms of an ingrown toenail, as their risk for severe complications is significantly higher. A medical professional may need to drain an abscess, prescribe oral antibiotics, or perform a minor procedure to remove the offending portion of the nail.