Effective Ways to Manage an Ingrown Fingernail

Ingrown fingernails, though less common than their toenail counterparts, can cause considerable discomfort and potential infection. When a fingernail becomes ingrown, it means that one side of the nail grows and curves into the soft skin surrounding the finger's edges. Discover how to effectively manage an ingrown fingernail to alleviate discomfort and promote healing.

Assist the Nail's Elevation: In cases of minor ingrown nails, self-lifting is an option. Soaking the nail to soften it, followed by inserting a separating agent underneath, helps prevent further growth into the skin. Consider using clean cotton gauze, cotton balls, or dental floss to lift the ingrown fingernail's edge.

Apply antibiotic cream: Utilize a small amount of topical antibiotic cream on the affected area to prevent infections. Use a clean Q-tip to spread the cream, then cover it with a fresh bandage. Remember to change the bandage and reapply the cream daily.

Utilize OTC pain relievers: In cases of infected ingrown fingernails causing discomfort, consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers following the recommended dosages. Options like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or naproxen sodium (Aleve) can help alleviate pain.

Warm water soak: Immerse your finger in warm water for approximately 15 minutes, providing relief from pain and reducing swelling. Repeat this process 2-3 times daily. Ensure thorough drying of the fingernail post-soak and apply ointment or oil. Replace any bandages or cotton after each soak.

Try Epsom salt: Another effective method involves soaking your hand in warm water with Epsom salt added. Let your hand soak for 20 minutes to benefit from pain and inflammation relief. If using table salt, increase the quantity slightly. After soaking, dry the finger completely before applying a bandage.

Hydrogen peroxide cleansing: Utilize hydrogen peroxide in warm water to clean your ingrown fingernail, effectively preventing infection.

Consult a medical professional: If your ingrown fingernail is infected or shows no improvement after approximately five days, it's advisable to seek medical attention. Your doctor may prescribe topical or oral antibiotics depending on the severity of the infection. Additionally, if fungus is the cause, your doctor can provide suitable treatment options after evaluation of your symptoms.

Surgical nail elevation: In cases of infection without pus formation, a physician may recommend lifting the nail to facilitate proper growth over the skin. This process involves placing a separating agent like cotton or a splint between the nail and skin to maintain separation.

Surgical removal of ingrown nail: Recurrent ingrown fingernails may necessitate surgical intervention. A partial nail avulsion is a common procedure where the ingrown part of the nail is surgically removed. Vigilance is required post-surgery to prevent recurrence, especially with partial nail avulsion. In severe instances, chemical removal of the entire nail bed may be warranted, typically employed for treating ingrown toenails.

Identify ingrown fingernail symptoms: An ingrown fingernail occurs when one edge of the nail grows into the surrounding soft skin, leading to redness, pain, swelling, and potential infection. Infections may manifest with pus and extended swelling along the finger.

Explore ingrown fingernail causes: While less common than ingrown toenails, several factors contribute to ingrown fingernails, including injury, nail biting, improper nail cutting, fungal infections, and naturally curved or thickened nails. These factors may be genetic or age-related.

Monitor symptom progression: While most ingrown fingernails resolve with home or standard medical treatment, severe infections require immediate medical attention. Seek medical help if symptoms worsen, such as the presence of pus, increasing pain, or fever.

Prevent ingrown fingernails: Avoid cutting nails too short or tearing them, as this can lead to ingrown nails. File nails smoothly and maintain dryness and cleanliness. Regularly inspect nails for signs of ingrowth to address them promptly.