Ingrown toenail: causes and which doctor to see
A toenail growing into the skin at its edge is common with tight shoes and cutting the nail incorrectly (rounded or too short). Caught early, it can improve with simple measures.
Which doctor should I see for ingrown toenail?
For ingrown toenail you can first see: Dermatology or General Surgery. If you are not sure, a family doctor can refer you to the right specialist.
What causes ingrown toenail?
The most common causes are listed below. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
- 1Cutting the nail rounded and too short
- 2Tight, pointed shoes
- 3An injury to the toe
- 4Inherited nail shape
- 5Sweating and poor foot hygiene
When is it an emergency? Call 112 now
- Is redness spreading quickly from the toe up the foot, with fever
- Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up
- Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg
- Are you struggling to breathe even at rest
What you can do at home
- Soak your foot in warm water for 10–15 minutes 2–3 times a day and dry it well.
- Wear comfortable shoes with a wide toe box.
- Cut the nail straight across; do not cut deep into the corners.
See a doctor if
- There is infection, discharge or swelling
- Without delay if you have diabetes or circulation problems
- It keeps coming back
How long does it last and how is it treated?
Caught early, it eases within a few days with warm soaks and suitable shoes. An infected or frequently recurring ingrown toenail may need a small procedure.
Treatment options for ingrown toenail
See how each treatment is done, how long it takes and which doctors offer it in your city. Your doctor will decide which option suits you after an examination.
Find a dermatologist in your city
Dermatologists in Turkish cities who can help with ingrown toenail.
People also describe it as
- “I have an ingrown toenail”
- “My toenail has grown into the skin”
- “The edge of my nail hurts”
Frequently asked questions
Which doctor should I see for ingrown toenail?
For ingrown toenail you can first see: Dermatology or General Surgery. If you are not sure, a family doctor (general practitioner) can assess you first and refer you to the right specialist.
What causes ingrown toenail?
The most common causes: cutting the nail rounded and too short; tight, pointed shoes; an injury to the toe; inherited nail shape; sweating and poor foot hygiene. Only a doctor’s examination can determine the exact cause.
How long does ingrown toenail last and how is it treated?
Caught early, it eases within a few days with warm soaks and suitable shoes. An infected or frequently recurring ingrown toenail may need a small procedure.
Which department treats ingrown toenails?
See Dermatology; if a procedure is needed, General Surgery or Orthopaedics can carry it out.
How can I treat an ingrown toenail at home?
Soak your foot in warm water and dry it, wear comfortable shoes and cut the nail straight. Do not try to cut out the ingrown nail yourself.
When is ingrown toenail an emergency?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, call 112 without delay: “Is redness spreading quickly from the toe up the foot, with fever?” “Is there confusion, fainting or difficulty waking up?” “Is there facial drooping, slurred speech or sudden weakness in an arm or leg?” “Are you struggling to breathe even at rest?”
When should I see a doctor for ingrown toenail?
See a doctor: there is infection, discharge or swelling; without delay if you have diabetes or circulation problems; it keeps coming back.
Similar complaints
Emergency numbers in Turkey
112: ambulance, emergency (free, 24/7, from any phone). 114: National Poison Information Centre. 182: appointment line for public hospitals (MHRS). Pharmacies on night duty (nöbetçi eczane) are posted on the door of every pharmacy.
Sources
This page is based on current information published by the official and independent bodies below and on our editorial principles. Last updated: . To report an error: contact us.
This page does not provide a medical diagnosis and does not replace an examination by a doctor. If you think it is an emergency, call 112 (Turkey’s free emergency number). For poisoning, call the National Poison Information Centre on 114.