how to treat an ingrown toenail

how to treat an ingrown toenail

7 hours ago 4
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To treat an ingrown toenail, start with home remedies such as soaking the affected foot in warm, soapy water or a foot bath with Epsom salt for 10 to 20 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day. After soaking, gently lift the edge of the toenail and place a small piece of cotton, waxed dental floss, or dental floss coated with a waterproof solution under the nail to help it grow above the skin edge. Keep the area clean, apply petroleum jelly to reduce irritation, wear comfortable footwear or open-toed shoes, and take over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to ease pain. If signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, pus, or severe pain occur, or if home care does not improve the condition in a few days, see a healthcare provider. They may perform procedures like partial nail removal, nail lifting, or in severe and recurrent cases, removal of part of the nail and nail bed to prevent regrowth of the problematic nail portion.

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