Ingrown toenails may not only be painful but can also cause redness and swelling. Many people will try to treat the condition at home and with the right combination you can have some success. However, if there is an infection or the ingrown toenail is severe you may need further medical intervention at a Santa Monica urgent care. 

What Causes an Ingrown Toenail?

There are several causes of an ingrown toenail, and it typically happens to your big toe. Some causes include:

• Cutting nails too short
• Cutting nails at an angle
• Wearing shoes that are too tight
• Toenail trauma

Ingrown toenails can be pesky and can often be treated at home. However, if it becomes infected you will need to seek medical attention at a Santa Monica urgent care. 

Soak in Warm, Soapy Water

One popular and often effective home remedy is to soak your foot in warm, soapy water. You should soak your foot for 20 minutes three times a day. This process can help with the swelling and in some cases take away some of the pain. 

Oral Antibiotics

If you are in pain and fear there may be an infection, see a medical professional at a Santa Monica urgent care for prescribed antibiotics.

Comfortable Footwear

Ingrown toenails can get out of hand when your shoes are not the right fit. If you wear shoes that are too tight, this does not allow any space for your toes to breathe. If you already have an ingrown toenail the symptoms can only be made worse. You should make sure that your shoes and socks allow your toes room to breathe. If you have an ingrown toenail wear sandals or open-toed shoes as much as possible to allow the nail to heal. 

Antibiotic Ointments

Chances of infection are high when it comes to ingrown toenails. A possible resolution is using over-the-counter antibiotic cream. You should use these creams on the toenail three times a day to help reduce the risk of infection. You will also need to bandage the nail after you apply the ointment. It is important to seek medical attention at a Santa Monica urgent care if you suspect your toenail is getting infected. 

UrgentMED Can Aid in Your Treatment of an Ingrown Toenail

If you are suffering from an ingrown toenail and are unsure of what to do, you should visit a Santa Monica urgent care. UrgentMED is standing by to help you treat your ingrown nail.