What should I do if my ingrown toenail with fungal infection is extremely painful?

Ingrown toenails causing severe pain may result from improper trimming, inflammation due to fungal nail infection, or other reasons. Treatment methods include wearing comfortable shoes, keeping the feet clean and dry, and using medications. Specific analysis is as follows:

1. Improper Trimming

Improper trimming can lead to ingrown toenails. When a nail grows into the skin, first disinfect the affected area and also sterilize the nail clippers. Then slowly insert the nail clipper between the nail and the skin, gently lifting the nail upward, and carefully cut away the portion growing into the skin. This can help relieve the condition of the nail embedding into the flesh.

2. Keep Feet Clean and Dry

Fungal nail infections are caused by fungi. If the infection is severe, it may trigger inflammation, leading to pain and discomfort. Keeping the feet clean and dry helps reduce the risk of fungal infection and can also alleviate pain and discomfort.

3. Medication Treatment

Fungal nail infections can also be treated under a doctor's guidance with antifungal medications to reduce inflammation and pain. Commonly used drugs include flucytosine tablets, nystatin tablets, and fluconazole capsules.

In addition, if fungal nail infection significantly affects quality of life, surgical removal under medical supervision may be considered. If an ingrown fungal nail causes severe pain along with other symptoms such as redness, swelling, fever, or pus discharge, prompt medical attention is necessary for proper diagnosis and treatment.