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Ingrown toenail

Overview

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Symptoms of an ingrown toenail include a painful and swollen toe. Your toenail may curve into the side of your toe.

Things you can do to help an ingrown toenail include soaking your foot in warm, salty water, taking painkillers and wearing comfortable shoes.

A GP may give you antibiotics if your ingrown toenail is infected. Sometimes your nail may need to be cut or removed by a foot specialist.

To prevent ingrown toenails, keep your feet clean, cut straight across your nails and do not cut them too short. Make sure your shoes fit properly.

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.

Page last reviewed: 24/01/2022
Next review due: 24/01/2025