If you’ve ever experienced the discomfort of an ingrown toenail, you understand it’s not something to ignore.
While the idea of a mere toenail issue might seem minor, an ingrown nail can be extremely painful and even debilitating. Our toenails, by nature, can sometimes be unpleasant, cracking or even becoming infected.
The issue with ingrown toenails is the pain they cause, often leading people to ignore the problem for too long, which can make it worse.
Naturally, misguided attempts at home treatment can also result in mishaps. I’ll always remember the time my dad decided to “treat me” using a Swiss Army knife.
What Is An Ingrown Toenail?
An ingrown toenail is a common condition that most of us are familiar with.
According to the Mayo Clinic, this pesky problem occurs when “the corner or side of a toenail grows into the soft flesh. The result is pain, redness, swelling and, sometimes, an infection.”
Ingrown toenails usually occur on your big toe because that nail tends to be the thickest and strongest, and is more likely to be the main victim of overcrowding in shoes.
