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An ingrown toenail is a common problem where the nail grows into the toe. It can be painful, but there are things you can do to ease the pain.
You usually get an ingrown toenail on your big toe. But you can get them on any toe.
Your toenail may curve into your toe.
Your toe can also get infected.
Signs of an infected toe include:
If you go to a GP with an ingrown toenail, they'll usually suggest you try these things first.
soak your foot in warm, salty water to help soften the skin around your toe and reduce the chances of infection
keep your foot dry for the rest of the day
wear wide, comfortable shoes or sandals
take paracetamol or ibuprofen to ease the pain
do not cut your toenail – leave it to grow out
do not pick at your toe or toenail
do not wear tight, pointy shoes
You can ask a pharmacist about:
A GP can:
If you have a badly ingrown toenail, they may refer you to a foot specialist (podiatrist).
A podiatrist may offer further treatments, such as:
You'll have an injection of local anaesthetic to numb your toe when this is done.
Referral to a podiatrist on the NHS may not be available to everyone and waiting times can be long. You can pay to see a podiatrist privately.
If you have an ingrown toenail, you might be able to refer yourself directly to a podiatrist without seeing a GP.
To find out if there are any services in your area:
To help stop ingrown toenails:
