Ingrown toenail

[sexy_bef69]

I have a phobia of feet, but have an ingrown toenail. It is painful and embarassing... is there anything I can do about it?

[bluedolphin]

Oh yes indeed...u need to go to ur gp or chiropodist and they will put u in contact with a surgeon...it will probably need to be removed....they may just take it out or go down deeper and take out the root and all....nothing to be embarassed about I would have thought!!

[andy hughes]

I can appreciate your phobia is preventing you from getting treatment, but better to overcome that feeling now, rather than let your condition get worse, and have to beg someone to treat it for you! Why not see your GP first, he may be able to give you a mild tranquiliser to get you through the treatment stage.

[Cetti]

First thing to do is keep soaking in warm water with TCP or similar to keep any infection at bay. Then take your courage in both hands (I had to as well!)and make an appointment with a good Chiropodist/Podiatrist at their clinic. It may just need cutting away or you may have to have minor surgery. Don't panic, it's not that bad and what it entails is a process called 'sectioning'. After a couple of jabs either side of the nail (only a tiny part) is removed to allow the nail to grow properly. It's a bit sore for a couple of weeks but compare that to what you're going through now. I should add that this procedure is only used for the big toe - but be brave and get it sorted. Good luck!

[Zara Tatem]

My son has problems with ingrowing toenails and was given the following advice: if the toe-nail is infected, bathe with a weak solution of hydrogen peroxide(v. cheap from chemist), this literally fizzes away bacteria. If you can, grow the toe-nail and then trim it in a straight line, as the shaping is what leaves the sticky-out bits which then dig into your toe. Your local doctor may also be able to treat your toe with phenol, which destroys the nail base, put then you may find the problem just re-occurs. Also try wearing sandals or cotton socks and not-too-tight shoes - if you wear trainers, try and let your feet breathe every now and then. Feet are lovely and useful - so make the best of them!