Will Ingrown Toenails Fix Themselves?
August 14, 2025
Editorial Team
Reviewed by InfoBase Team
3 min read
general
Understanding Ingrown Toenails and Their Healing Process
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Pain | Localized pain around the toenail, especially when pressure is applied. |
| Swelling | Swelling of the skin surrounding the toenail. |
| Redness | Redness around the affected area, indicating inflammation. |
| Discharge | Pus or fluid may ooze from the area if infected. |
Likely causes of ingrown toenails
Likely Causes
- Improper nail trimming (cutting too short or rounding edges)
- Wearing tight-fitting shoes or socks
- Injury to the toe
- Genetic predisposition to curved nails
- Excessive sweating
Step-by-Step Diagnosis
- Observe the symptoms: Check for pain, swelling, redness, and discharge.
- Assess nail growth: Look for signs of the nail growing into the skin.
- Consider footwear: Evaluate if shoes are too tight or improperly fitted.
- Check for infection: Note any pus or increased pain indicating infection.
Treatment Options for Ingrown Toenails
Treatment options vary based on the severity of the condition:
- Home Care: Soak the foot in warm, soapy water to reduce swelling and pain. Use a cotton ball to gently lift the nail edge.
- Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain.
- Professional Treatment: If symptoms persist, consult a podiatrist. They may recommend partial nail removal or other procedures.
Prevention Tips
preventing ingrown toenails
- Trim nails straight across and avoid rounding the edges.
- Wear properly fitting shoes that allow enough space for toes.
- Keep feet clean and dry to prevent infections.
- Seek early treatment for any foot injuries.
Key Takeaways
- Ingrown toenails can sometimes heal on their own, but treatment is often necessary.
- Symptoms include pain, swelling, redness, and discharge.
- Common causes are improper nail trimming and tight footwear.
- Home care and professional treatment options are available.
- Preventive measures can help avoid future occurrences.
- Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen or do not improve.
FAQs
- Can I treat an ingrown toenail at home? Yes, mild cases can often be treated at home with warm soaks and proper nail care.
- When should I see a doctor? If you experience severe pain, swelling, or signs of infection, seek medical attention.
- Will an ingrown toenail go away on its own? Some may resolve without treatment, but persistent cases usually require intervention.
- How can I prevent ingrown toenails? Proper nail trimming and wearing well-fitted shoes can help prevent ingrown toenails.
Jaden Bohman
Jaden Bohman is a researcher led writer and editor focused on productivity, technology, and evidence based workflows. Jaden blends academic rigor with real world testing to deliver clear, actionable advice readers can trust.
How we created this article
This piece was drafted using editorial templates and may include AI-assisted sections. All content is reviewed by the InfoBase editorial team for accuracy, clarity, and usefulness before publishing.