When this happens, the affected skin area can become inflamed and painful.
Toenails that become ingrown in the surrounding skin begin to cause inflammation in this area.
As a result, the surrounding skinfold usually becomes puffy or red in appearance.
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In many cases, indentations or irregularities also appear on the nails surface.
Trauma to the Toenail
Trauma to a toenailcan also cause pain to develop in the region.
Occasionally, a steroid cream or a pressure-alleviating tape is also used to reduce skin fold irritation.
In severe cases, a portion of the nail may even need to besurgically removedto effectively fix the problem.
Minor trauma to a toenail is often treated at home.
Wash your toe gently with mild soap and water.
Protect the nail from further damage by wearing open-toed shoes and covering it with a sterile bandage.
Elevate the foot above your heart.
If the nail is raised or loose, you may have broken your toe or an infection has developed.
If you see signs such as pus drainage or a red streak, see a healthcare provider for treatment.
They may drill a hole in the nail to relieve pressure or trim a loose nail.
It is not recommended that you do this at home.
Summary
Ingrown nails and fungal infections are common causes of pain in the toenail.
An injury or trauma to the area can also be to blame.
Oftentimes, an evaluation by a medical professional is all that is needed to properly diagnose the issue.
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Westerberg DP, Voyack MJ.Onychomycosis: current trends in diagnosis and treatment.American Family Physician.
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American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.Subungual hematoma.
