An ingrown nail occurs when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, often causing pain, redness and sometimes infection. This page offers general information, simple self-care steps and guidance on which type of clinician to consult if problems persist or worsen.
An ingrown nail most often affects the big toe when a nail edge presses into or pierces the adjacent skin. Local irritation can lead to swelling, tenderness and in some cases pus. Recurrent or long-standing problems may change the nail’s shape or lead to chronic inflammation, so persistent issues warrant professional assessment.
Early signs include localized pain, redness, swelling and sensitivity at the nail margin. If there is pus, spreading redness, foul odor, fever or severe pain limiting movement, these may indicate a spreading infection and require urgent medical attention rather than home care. For mild, recent symptoms a primary care clinician can usually evaluate and advise.
Frequent contributors are cutting nails too short or rounding the corners, wearing tight or narrow shoes, repeated trauma (from sports or activity), thickened or fungal nails and certain foot shapes. Genetic nail curvature can also raise the likelihood of recurrence.
Simple measures help reduce symptoms and future risk: choose roomy footwear, keep feet clean, and trim nails straight across without cutting them very short. Avoid digging at the nail or forcibly removing parts of it yourself. If symptoms are new and mild, consult your general practitioner for assessment and advice; recurrent, complicated or infected cases may be referred to podiatry/foot surgery, orthopedics or dermatology for further care.
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