ingrown nail (redirected from Ingrown toenails)

nail (nāl)

1. the horny cutaneous plate on the dorsal surface of the distal end of a finger or toe.

2. a rod of metal, bone, or other material for fixation of fragments of fractured bones.

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ingrown nail  aberrant growth of a toenail, with one or both lateral margins pushing deeply into adjacent soft tissue.

racket nail  a short broad thumbnail.

spoon nail  one with a concave surface.

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ingrown nail

n.

A toenail, one edge of which has grown abnormally into the nail fold. Also called ingrown toenail.

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ingrown nail [in´grōn]

aberrant growth of a toenail, with one or both lateral margins pushing deeply into adjacent soft tissue, causing pain, inflammation, and possible infection. The condition occurs most frequently in the great toe, and is often caused by pressure from tight-fitting shoes. Another common cause is improper cutting of the toenails, which should be cut straight across or with a curved toenail scissors so that the sides are a little longer than the middle.

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Patient discussion about ingrown nail.

Q. How to prevent an ingrown toenail? I recently had an ingrown toenail and am scared of having another. How can I prevent it?

A. When you trim your toe nails make sure your cut them straight a cross. What ever you do, don't tear the nail off.

Q. What are the symptoms of an ingrown toenail? My son has a red toe and complains that it hurts. Is this an ingrown toenail?

A. most likely yes,you can take him to the doctor,and they can cut it out,after they numb it,of course.

Q. How to treat an ingrown toenail? I think I have an ingrown toenail. How to treat it?

A. When the problem is mild, you may only need to soak your foot in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes and place dry cotton, such as part of a cotton ball, under the corner of the nail. Signs that the problem is getting worse include increasing pain, swelling and drainage of the area. Sometimes minor surgery is needed to remove the part of the nail that is poking into the skin.