Why Surgery May Be Better Than DIY Ingrown Toenail Treatments

Many people may prefer to try home remedies for treating an ingrown toenail instead of undergoing surgery for this condition. However, the home remedies come with several disadvantages to the affected person. Below are some of those shortcomings and explanations why ingrown toenail surgery could be a better treatment option. 

Likelihood of infection

Many people who try to treat ingrown toenails on their own often end up developing infections at the affected site. For example, people usually place a piece of cotton underneath the affected nail to get some relief from the pain. Such treatment methods create an opportunity for bacteria to grow in the object that has been placed underneath the nail. Infections can develop quickly since the cotton (or any other object) is in direct contact with the exposed tissues underneath the nail. Surgery is a better option because it is conducted in a sterile environment that doesn't give bacteria a chance to grow underneath the ingrown toenail.

The problem can worsen

One of the most common causes of ingrown toenails is incorrect nail trimming. The skin can fold over a nail that is cut too short. This creates an opportunity for the toenail to dig into the skin as the nail grows again. What do some people do when the nail becomes painful? They continue trimming the nail. This allows more skin to fold over the nail. A vicious cycle begins. Surgery can put a halt to this worsening situation. This is because a trained medical practitioner examines the affected toenail before planning a surgical approach to put an end to the problem.

The cause remains

Some over-the-counter remedies are available to people who have ingrown toenails. However, those remedies may only work to mask the pain that you are feeling. They do not address the underlying problem that is causing the pain. Consequently, you may end up being involved in a protracted battle to deal with your painful toenail. Surgery can address the pain and the cause. For example, the doctor may apply some liquid that will prevent the nail from growing again over the affected area. In this way, your fight with the ingrown toenail will be ended for good.

Surgery may not always be the best course of action for everyone with an ingrown toenail. It is therefore advisable for you to see a podiatrist so that they can recommend the best way to deal with the problem. That expert will also advise you on the best steps that you need to take to prevent a recurrence.

Share