An infected toe is a common foot problem that people experience. The most common types of infected toes are those related to ingrown toenails, which are caused by bacteria, and infected toes caused by nail fungus. If you think you have either nail problem, here are some treatment options that might help you.

Ingrown toenail

Also known as onychocryptosis, an ingrown toenail is a common foot problem that usually affects the big toe. An infected ingrown toenail causes pain and can lead to other complications requiring more invasive treatment. Podiatrists diagnose an ingrown toenail when the skin surrounding the nail is red, swollen and painful. There may also be pus coming from the nail if infection is present.

causes of ingrown toenails

There are several factors that could cause an infected ingrown toenail, including:

• Wearing tight-fitting socks or shoes

• Not cutting toenails properly (too short, not straight)

• Injuring the toe

• Picking the nails

• Having sweaty feet

ingrown toenail treatment

There are several things to keep in mind when choosing treatment for an infected toe. If you would like to treat an infected ingrown toenail at home, try these steps:

• Soak the infected toe daily in warm salty water for the infection. The water should be quite salty. 

• Use a bandaid or some tape to gently pull the skin away from the nail. Leave the tape/bandaid on during the day.

• Do this treatment every day for a few weeks to allow the nail to grow.

• Avoid pushing things down the side of the nail, as this may make it worse.

If this treatment does not work, it is probably time to seek infected toe treatment from a podiatrist. Although an infected ingrown toenail is a small problem, it can cause more severe conditions if left untreated.

Summary

Ingrown toenails are common and can be managed in a variety of ways. Podiatrists are experts at managing ingrown toenails, and often, the treatment can be simple and with limited discomfort. One of our podiatrists, Dr Glen Whittaker, is endorsed to prescribe scheduled medicines including antibiotics. Therefore, we can manage the ingrown toenail and any possible infection that may occur.