An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding soft flesh of the toe. This condition most frequently affects the big toe, though any toe can be involved. Neglecting an ingrown toenail can lead to worsening symptoms and significant health concerns.
Worsening Discomfort and Local Inflammation
Leaving an ingrown toenail unaddressed leads to increasing physical discomfort. Initially, the skin next to the nail may become tender, swollen, and hard. This causes pain, especially when pressure is applied, making walking and wearing shoes difficult. The constant irritation exacerbates these symptoms, leading to heightened tenderness and redness of the surrounding skin.
As irritation persists, hypergranulation tissue, also called “proud flesh,” can form. This bright red, soft growth appears around the ingrown nail. It develops as the body attempts to heal but is continuously stimulated by the embedded nail, often bleeding easily. This ongoing inflammation intensifies pain, even before a bacterial infection takes hold.
Risk of Bacterial Infection
The broken skin barrier from an ingrown toenail allows bacteria to enter, leading to infection. Common bacteria are often responsible, which can manifest as paronychia (infection around the nail) or cellulitis (a deeper skin infection). Signs of infection include increased redness, swelling, and warmth.
Pus or drainage from the affected area indicates bacterial invasion. This discharge can be yellow or green and may have an unpleasant odor. Infections can worsen quickly if ignored, leading to throbbing pain and, in some cases, systemic symptoms like fever or chills.
Potential for Severe Health Issues
An untreated ingrown toenail can lead to more serious complications. Cellulitis, a spreading skin infection, can extend from the toe to other parts of the foot or leg, with expanding redness, swelling, and warmth. This condition requires prompt medical attention to prevent further spread.
In rare cases, infection can progress to osteomyelitis, an infection of the underlying bone. This is particularly concerning for individuals with compromised immune systems or circulatory problems, such as those with diabetes. Osteomyelitis causes persistent pain and may require aggressive treatment, including antibiotics or surgical removal of infected bone.
For individuals with poor circulation, such as those with diabetes, an untreated infection can lead to gangrene. Gangrene is tissue death due to impaired blood flow and unchecked bacterial growth, sometimes leading to amputation. Even if symptoms temporarily subside, the underlying ingrown nail often remains, making recurrence probable and potentially leading to chronic pain and repeated infections.
When Professional Care Becomes Essential
While some minor ingrown toenails may resolve with home management, professional medical attention is necessary in certain circumstances. If signs of infection develop, such as pus, spreading redness, increased warmth, or fever, medical consultation is crucial. Severe or worsening pain that interferes with daily activities also warrants professional evaluation.
Individuals with underlying health conditions affecting circulation or immune function, including diabetes or HIV/AIDS, should seek medical care immediately. These conditions increase the risk of severe complications, as even a minor ingrown toenail can quickly escalate. If home remedies fail or ingrown toenails recur frequently, a doctor can remove the nail edge, manage infection, and discuss permanent solutions.