Why does my toenail hurt and red?
An ingrown toenail may cause pain, redness, swelling and, sometimes, an infection around the toenail. Ingrown toenails are a common condition in which the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh. The result is pain, redness, swelling and, sometimes, an infection.
Why is my toenail swollen and hurts?
When the side or corner of a toenail grows into the flesh of the toe, it’s called an ingrown toenail. Ingrown toenails cause swelling, pain, and redness. Ingrown toenails can also become infected. Treatment: If your toe is infected — or at risk of infection — your doctor might prescribe an antibiotic.
How do you soothe an inflamed toenail?
Here’s how:
- Soak your feet in warm water. Do this for 15 to 20 minutes three to four times a day.
- Place cotton or dental floss under your toenail. After each soaking, put fresh bits of cotton or waxed dental floss under the ingrown edge.
- Apply antibiotic cream.
- Choose sensible footwear.
- Take pain relievers.
What does it look like when your toenail is infected?
Infected nails are usually thicker than normal and could be warped or oddly shaped. They can break easily. Nails with fungus might look yellow. Sometimes a white dot shows up on the nail and then gets bigger.
Will an infected toenail heal itself?
They will not go away without intervention, but people can usually treat them at home over a few days. A person should speak to a doctor if: the ingrown toenail does not improve with home care.
How do you fix an infected toenail?
How Is a Toe Infection Treated?
- Soak the toe for about 15 minutes in a bathtub or bucket filled with warm water and salt. Do this three to four times a day.
- Rub a medicated ointment on the toe and wrap it in a clean bandage.
- To treat an ingrown toenail, gently lift the corner of the nail.
How long does an infected toenail last?
If after 2 to 3 days of antibiotics the toenail doesn’t get better or gets worse, part of the nail may need to be removed to drain the infection. With treatment, it can take 1 to 2 weeks to clear up completely.
When should I go to the doctor for a toe infection?
Be sure to see a doctor if your toe gets infected. Your toe might be infected if it hurts more than it did before you tried the home treatment. Call your doctor if your toe is red, warm, swollen, or drains pus, or if there are red streaks leading from your toe. Your doctor might give you antibiotics.
Should I go to the hospital for an infected toe?
What will a doctor do for a infected toe?
How Is a Toe Infection Treated? If bacteria caused the infection, an antibiotic cream or pill can clear up the problem. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal pills or cream. You can buy antifungal medicines over the counter or with a prescription from your doctor.
