What should I do if my toenail is growing into the skin? It’s very painful.

When a toenail grows into the surrounding skin, it is medically termed “ingrown toenail” (onychocryptosis), which frequently leads to paronychia—an infection of the nail fold and adjacent soft tissues. Symptoms of paronychia include purulent discharge, subungual abscess formation, and separation of the nail plate from the nail bed. As the condition progresses, localized redness, swelling, and pain intensify significantly, often necessitating professional medical intervention—such as partial or complete nail avulsion—at a reputable hospital. So, what should you do if an ingrown toenail causes severe pain? Below, we address this question.

What to Do When an Ingrown Toenail Causes Severe Pain

1. Pharmacological Treatment

Pharmacological therapy can effectively manage pain associated with ingrown toenails. In early-stage cases, topical or oral antibiotics may be prescribed to suppress bacterial growth and provide anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects. For instance, anti-inflammatory analgesics can alleviate pain and swelling, particularly when discomfort is severe. Topical urea ointment helps soften both the surrounding skin and the nail itself, facilitating correction. Silver nitrate application causes minimal discomfort, typically requiring no anesthesia; it flattens granulation tissue and inhibits purulent and serous exudate.

2. Warm Soaks

Soaking the affected foot in warm water is another effective home remedy for painful ingrown toenails. Prepare approximately 100 mL of vinegar and add it to a basin containing warm water (~45°C). Soak the foot for several minutes until the toenail feels slightly softened. Additionally, individuals who habitually trim their nails very short should avoid over-trimming. After trimming, disinfect the area with iodophor.

3. Surgical Intervention

Surgical treatment is indicated for severe or recurrent ingrown toenails. Local anesthesia is administered prior to incision and drainage. If infection extends deeply, the proximal one-third of the nail plate may be lifted to facilitate drainage and promote resolution of inflammation. Alternative approaches include traditional Chinese medicine therapies—such as herbal poultices or foot soaks—as well as conventional podiatric techniques. These methods are generally safe, with few adverse effects, and demonstrate good efficacy in resolving inflammation.

The above outlines management strategies for painful ingrown toenails. In daily life, wear breathable footwear and avoid prolonged use of tight, non-ventilated shoes—such as leather dress shoes—as poor foot ventilation increases susceptibility to paronychia. We hope this information proves helpful.