An ingrown fingernail is a common condition where a portion of the nail grows into the surrounding skin. This often occurs when the nail’s edge or corner presses into the soft tissue of the nail fold. While ingrown toenails are more frequently discussed, fingernails can also be affected, leading to pain and potential complications.
Identifying the Nail’s Ingrowth
The most direct visual sign of an ingrown fingernail is the nail plate penetrating the soft flesh that borders it. This typically happens when the nail’s corner or side curves downward, embedding into the surrounding skin. The nail, rather than growing straight forward, begins to push into the nail fold.
The natural curvature of the nail can sometimes be exaggerated, causing it to grow more easily into the skin. This exaggerated curve can make it appear as if the skin is “swallowing” the nail edge, particularly on the sides. The area where the nail meets the skin might show a slight indentation or pressure mark from the nail’s intrusion.
The sharp edge of the nail acts as a foreign body, piercing the skin of the nail fold. This penetration can be subtle at first, with only a small portion of the nail’s side or corner visibly embedded.
Visible Signs of Surrounding Tissue Reaction
As the nail continues to grow into the skin, the surrounding tissue often reacts with noticeable visual changes. One of the earliest signs is erythema, or redness, of the skin immediately adjacent to the embedded nail. This redness is usually accompanied by localized swelling, known as edema, which makes the affected area appear puffy and raised.
If the condition progresses, especially if an infection develops, pus or clear fluid drainage may become visible around the nail. This discharge can be white or yellowish and often indicates bacterial involvement. In more severe or prolonged cases, the body’s response to the irritation and potential infection can lead to the formation of granulation tissue.
Granulation tissue appears as a bright red, fleshy growth that can partially or fully cover the embedded nail edge. This tissue is highly vascular, meaning it contains many tiny blood vessels, and may bleed easily if bumped. Its presence signifies a more advanced stage of the ingrown fingernail.