Absolutely. Ingrown toenails and toenail fungus are distinct conditions. Ingrown toenails result from the nail growing into the skin, causing pain, redness and possible infection. In contrast, toenail fungus (onychomycosis) involves a fungal infection of the nail plate and sometimes the surrounding skin, leading to discolouration, thickening and brittle nails.
Understanding these differences is essential for effective prevention and management. In this blog, we’ll get into the specifics of ingrown toenails and toenail fungus, exploring symptoms, underlying causes and practical prevention strategies to help you maintain healthy, pain-free feet. Whether you’re dealing with one of these issues or simply aiming to avoid them, this guide has you covered.
Things To Know About Ingrown Toenails
An ingrown toenail develops when the edge of a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, often leading to discomfort and potential infection. This condition can be triggered by various factors:
- Improper Nail Trimming: Cutting the nail too short or in a rounded fashion encourages the skin to fold over the nail and embeds the nail edge into the skin.
- Tight-Fitting Shoes: Footwear that does not fit properly can press the nail into the toe skin, exacerbating the risk of the nail growing into the skin.
- Naturally Curved Toenails: Individuals with naturally curved or thick nails are more susceptible to developing ingrown toenails due to the increased tendency of the nail edges to dig into the skin.
- Trauma: Accidental stabbing or dropping something on your foot can alter nail growth, leading to ingrown toenails.
Symptoms
The onset of an ingrown toenail is often marked by distinct and uncomfortable symptoms:
- Pain and Tenderness: The affected toe becomes painful, especially when pressure is applied.
- Redness and Swelling: These are common inflammatory responses, which indicate that the body is reacting to the nail piercing the skin.
- Infection: If the ingrown nail breaks the skin, it can introduce bacteria, leading to infection characterised by warmth, pus and increased pain, potentially requiring medical attention.
- Impact on Mobility: Severe cases of ingrown toenails can make everyday activities like walking or wearing shoes extremely painful.
Things To Know About Toenail Fungus
Toenail fungus, scientifically known as onychomycosis, is a persistent fungal infection that targets the nail plate. It results in noticeable changes to the texture and colour of the nail:
- Fungal Types: The most common culprits are dermatophytes, a type of fungi that also causes conditions like athlete’s foot (tinea pedis).
- Risk Environments: Fungi flourish in moist, warm environments. Public areas like pools, showers and locker rooms are hotspots for these pathogens.
- Transmission: Fungal spores can easily transfer from contaminated surfaces to the feet, especially if small cuts or abrasions are present.
Symptoms
Toenail fungus manifests through a range of symptoms that differ significantly from those of ingrown toenails:
- Initial Signs: It often starts as a small white or yellow spot under the tip of the nail.
- Nail Changes: As the infection deepens, the nail may thicken, become brittle, discoloured and prone to crumbling.
- Skin Symptoms: Adjacent skin might exhibit signs of a fungal infection, including itching, peeling and the formation of small pustules.
- Spread of Infection: Without proper treatment, the fungus can spread, affecting several nails and worsening over time.
Treatment Approaches
Effective treatment strategies for these conditions are tailored to their unique causes and symptoms, focusing on both immediate relief and long-term management.
Ingrown Toenail
Effective management includes:
- Adopting proper nail-cutting techniques; straight across rather than rounded.
- Regularly soaking the foot in warm water to reduce swelling and ease pain.
- In severe cases, surgical removal of part of the nail may be necessary.
Toenail Fungus
Treatment strategies involve:
- Applying or consuming antifungal medications to eradicate the infection.
- Keeping the feet dry and clean to prevent fungal growth.
- Practising diligent nail care to avoid recurrence.
Prevention Tips
Preventive measures for both ingrown toenails and toenail fungus focus on proper nail care and hygiene, crucial for maintaining healthy feet.
Proper Nail Care and Foot Hygiene
Preventing both ingrown toenails and toenail fungus involves maintaining rigorous foot hygiene. This includes:
- Regularly trimming nails straight across to prevent ingrown toenails.
- Ensuring feet are dry and clean, especially after visiting public pools or showers.
- Choosing well-fitted shoes that provide adequate room for the toes.
Wearing Appropriate Footwear and Avoiding Damp Environments
Selecting the right footwear can drastically reduce the risk of both conditions. Shoes that provide enough room for the toes will prevent nail deformation and reduce moisture retention, discouraging fungal growth.
Get Relief Today with Lidcombe Podiatry
Don’t let the pain of ingrown toenails disrupt your life any longer. At Lidcombe Podiatry, our experts offer professional ingrown toenail removal services that promise not just relief but also a long-term solution to your discomfort. Our treatment methods are safe, effective and tailored to meet your individual needs. By choosing us, you’re stepping towards a pain-free lifestyle, ensuring your feet are in the best hands.
Take the first step towards comfortable, healthy feet today. Call us at (02) 8745 6297 or visit our Contact Us page to schedule your appointment at Lidcombe Podiatry. We’re here to help you walk comfortably again!
