Severe Ingrown Toenail Infection: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of the nail grows into the surrounding skin, leading to pain, swelling, and sometimes infection. In advanced cases, like the one shown in the image, the toe becomes red, swollen, and filled with pus or dead tissue, requiring urgent medical care.

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Causes of Ingrown Toenails

1. Improper Nail Trimming – Cutting nails too short or rounding the edges.

2. Tight Footwear – Shoes that press against the toes.

3. Injury – Trauma to the toenail from stubbing or repeated pressure.

4. Genetics – Naturally curved toenails are more prone to becoming ingrown.

5. Poor Foot Hygiene – Excess sweat and dirt make infections more likely.

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Symptoms of Severe Ingrown Toenail

• Redness and swelling around the nail edge

• Severe pain and tenderness when walking or touching the toe

• Pus, yellow discharge, or foul odor (signs of infection)

• Black or dead tissue in advanced cases

• Thickening of the skin around the nail

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Treatment Options

⚠️ Do not attempt to cut out or dig into the infected nail at home—this can worsen the infection.

1. Medical Treatments

• Drainage and Cleaning: A podiatrist or doctor will drain pus and clean the wound.

• Antibiotics: Prescribed if there’s a bacterial infection.

• Partial Nail Removal: In severe cases, part of the toenail is surgically removed to allow healing.

• Complete Nail Removal: If the problem is recurrent or severe, the entire nail may be removed, sometimes with destruction of the nail root to prevent regrowth.

2. At-Home Care (Mild Cases Only)

• Soak the foot in warm water with salt several times a day.

• Apply antiseptic ointment and cover with a clean bandage.

• Wear open-toed or loose shoes to reduce pressure.

• Take over-the-counter pain relievers if needed.

3. Aftercare

• Keep the wound clean and dry.

• Change bandages daily.

• Follow up with a doctor to ensure proper healing.

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Prevention of Ingrown Toenails

• Trim nails straight across and not too short.

• Wear properly fitting shoes with room for toes.

• Practice good foot hygiene—wash and dry feet daily.

• Avoid picking or tearing toenails.

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When to Seek Medical Help

• If the toe is severely swollen, red, and filled with pus.

• If there are signs of spreading infection (fever, red streaks up the foot).

• If you have diabetes or poor circulation—never ignore ingrown toenails, as infections can become dangerous.

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Bottom line: A severe ingrown toenail infection is a painful and potentially serious condition that requires medical treatment. Proper foot care, safe nail trimming, and prompt medical attention are the best ways to treat and prevent this problem.