What causes a toenail infection?

Infections in your toes may occur from a variety of sources, including fungal infections or calluses created by your shoes. An ingrown toenail is one of the most prevalent kinds of toenail infections. Ingrown toenails occur when the margins of the toenail begin to grow into the skin close to the toenail. Ingrown toenails may be red and inflamed, uncomfortable, and sometimes pus-filled.

The following are the most prevalent causes of ingrown toenails:

Cutting your toenail too short or too long
Toenail injury
Curved toenails (genetic predisposition)
Improper footwear (too tight or narrow) that puts pressure on your big toes
Cutting your toenail improperly (you should cut it straight across without angling the sides of the nail)
Certain sports and activities like dance, soccer, and skiing
Poor foot hygiene (not keeping your feet clean and dry)

If you have diabetes or another illness that causes poor circulation or a weaker immune system, infections on your toes may be prevalent. Diabetics should inspect their feet often and see a podiatrist on a regular basis since they may not feel the discomfort of a toe infection until it is severe.

When should you see a doctor?

While there are many things you can do at home to cure an infected toe, it's crucial to know when you should seek medical attention. If you have any of the following symptoms, contact your doctor or a podiatrist:

You are noticing redness, swelling, and/or drainage coming from your toe
You think you may have a fungal infection and over-the-counter creams haven’t worked
You have an infected or ingrown toenail and you’re diabetic
Your toenail infection symptoms don’t go away, they worsen, or they keep coming back

In cases where you experience a fever or see red streaks of the skin leading away from the infected spot on your toe, seek medical attention immediately. These symptoms may indicate a more serious illness.

You don't have to suffer from an infected toenail. You can go back to doing the things you enjoy by learning how to handle an infected toe and when to see a doctor. Before trying to treat unpleasant symptoms at home make a real-time appointment with Dr. Roohisn if you're concerned about a toe infection.