Ingrown toenails occur when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding soft flesh, rather than over it. This common condition most frequently affects the big toe, but can develop on any toe. While initially a minor discomfort, an untreated ingrown toenail can lead to increased pain, inflammation, and more severe health complications.
The Progression of an Untreated Ingrown Toenail
An ingrown toenail typically begins with mild symptoms, gradually worsening without intervention. Initially, the skin around the affected nail may become tender, swollen, and red. This localized inflammation often causes discomfort, particularly when pressure is applied to the toe, such as by wearing shoes or walking. The area might also feel hard to the touch.
As the condition progresses, pain usually intensifies, and redness and swelling become more pronounced. The continuous pressure from the nail digging into the skin can break the skin barrier, creating an entry point for bacteria. This can lead to drainage, which may appear as clear or yellowish fluid, or even pus, indicating an early infection.
In more advanced stages, the body’s response to irritation and potential infection can cause the skin to grow over the ingrown nail, sometimes forming new tissue known as a granuloma. This overgrowth can further exacerbate the problem by trapping the nail and increasing the risk of recurring infections. The toe may also feel warm to the touch.
Serious Complications of Neglect
Ignoring an ingrown toenail can lead to severe health issues. A common concern is bacterial infection, which can spread beyond the toe. Cellulitis, a bacterial skin infection, occurs when bacteria from the ingrown toenail enter deeper layers of the skin, causing widespread redness, warmth, and pain across the foot. This condition requires prompt medical attention and often antibiotics to prevent further spread.
Untreated infections can also lead to an abscess, a localized collection of pus beneath the skin. Abscesses are typically painful and tender, often requiring medical drainage. If the infection continues to spread and is not adequately controlled, it can reach the bone of the toe, leading to osteomyelitis. This bone infection is serious, especially for individuals with compromised immune systems or conditions like diabetes, as it can be difficult to treat and may require prolonged antibiotic therapy or even surgical removal of infected bone.
Chronic neglect of an ingrown toenail can result in persistent pain and recurring infections, significantly impacting daily activities and quality of life. Individuals with diabetes are at a heightened risk for these severe complications due to poor circulation and nerve damage, which can impair healing. This can lead to non-healing wounds or foot ulcers, which in extreme cases, may necessitate amputation if the infection becomes uncontrollable.
When to Seek Professional Care
Seeking professional medical attention for an ingrown toenail is crucial to prevent serious complications. While mild cases might respond to home care within a few days, certain signs indicate the need for a doctor’s visit. These include:
Increasing pain
Spreading redness or warmth
Pus or foul odor around the toenail
Fever or chills accompanying toe symptoms
Professional care is important if the pain is severe enough to interfere with daily activities or the ability to wear shoes comfortably. Individuals with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, poor circulation, or nerve damage should seek prompt medical attention at the first sign of an ingrown toenail. These conditions increase the risk of rapid progression to severe infection and impaired healing.
Self-treatment should only be attempted for very mild cases and for a limited duration, as improper home care can worsen the condition or introduce further infection. A medical professional can accurately diagnose the issue and recommend appropriate treatment, which may range from a minor in-office procedure to antibiotics for infection.