An ingrown toenail is when the side or corner of a nail grows into the skin of the toe. The skin around the toe can be red, swollen, and painful. Sometimes it gets infected. With treatment, the infection and ingrown toenail will go away. And basic foot care can prevent it from coming back.
How does an ingrown toenail happen? It happens when one or both corners of the nail push into and break the skin of the toe. This can lead to irritation and infection caused by the bacteria that live on the feet getting into the skin. The toe may become painful, swollen, red, or warm, and sometimes pus drains from the area.
What causes ingrown toenails? They usually happen from cutting the nails incorrectly; for example, cutting them too short or round. Wearing shoes that are too narrow or small can also cause an ingrown toenail. They also can happen after a toe injury or from repeating the same activity, like running or kicking a soccer ball.
What can prevent ingrown toenails? To prevent another ingrown toenail, kids should cut toenails straight across (not curved), not cut them too short, and not pick at their toenails. They should wear shoes that fit well and are wide enough across the toes.