How Can You Tell If You Have an Ingrown Toenail?

Ingrown toenails are a common yet often underestimated foot condition that can lead to discomfort, swelling, and even infection if left untreated. They typically occur when the edge or corner of a toenail grows into the surrounding soft tissue, most frequently affecting the big toe. While they can happen to anyone, ingrown toenails are especially common among teenagers, athletes, and individuals who wear tight or restrictive footwear. What may start as a minor annoyance can quickly become a painful and persistent issue that interferes with daily life. Recognizing the early signs and distinguishing ingrown toenail pain from general foot discomfort is essential for preventing complications.

What Is an Ingrown Toenail?

An ingrown toenail occurs when the edge of a toenail curves downward and grows into the surrounding skin, putting pressure on the soft tissue and leading to pain, swelling, redness, and potential infection. While the big toe is most commonly affected, any toe can develop an ingrown nail, with discomfort ranging from mild irritation to severe pain depending on how deeply the nail penetrates the skin. The condition may develop gradually due to improper nail care or tight footwear, or it may follow an acute injury to the toe. In its early stages, it may only feel tender when touched or while wearing shoes, but as it progresses, the area can become increasingly inflamed and may begin to drain pus if infection sets in.

Common Causes of an Ingrown Toenail

Understanding what leads to an ingrown toenail is the first step in preventing it. The condition often stems from everyday habits or foot care mistakes that are simple to correct. Several factors can increase your risk, from how you trim your nails to the shoes you wear. Below are some of the most frequent causes of ingrown toenails and how they contribute to this painful condition:

Improper Nail Trimming

Cutting toenails too short or rounding the corners can encourage the nail to grow into the skin rather than straight out. This common mistake disrupts natural nail growth and creates a direct path for the nail to pierce surrounding tissue. 

Tight or Ill-Fitting Footwear

Shoes that are too narrow or tight can compress the toes, pushing the nail into the surrounding skin. Constant pressure from tight shoes can worsen the condition and accelerate the development of an ingrown nail.

Injury or Trauma

Stubbing your toe or having something heavy fall on it can alter nail growth and cause the nail to grow inward. Even a single incident can permanently change the nail’s growth direction. 

Genetics

Some naturally have curved or thick nails, making them more susceptible to ingrown toenails. Inherited foot structure or nail shape can make prevention more challenging.

Poor Foot Hygiene

Not keeping the feet clean or dry can increase the likelihood of skin irritation and nail deformities. Bacteria and moisture create an ideal environment for inflammation and infection to develop.

Excessive Foot Use or Sweating

Athletes and active individuals may experience more friction and moisture, increasing their risk of developing ingrown nails. Repeated stress and damp conditions soften the skin, making it easier for the nail to grow inward. 

Early Signs You Might Have an Ingrown Toenail

Ingrown toenails typically develop gradually, starting with mild discomfort that can quickly escalate if ignored. Identifying the early warning signs is key to addressing the problem before it leads to more serious issues like infection or prolonged pain. Below are some of the most common early symptoms to watch for: 

Tenderness Around the Nail

You may feel sensitivity or pain on one or both sides of the toenail, especially when pressure is applied. This discomfort is often one of the first signs that the nail is starting to grow into the skin.

Redness and Swelling

The skin next to the nail may become inflamed and slightly swollen as the nail begins to press inward. This visible irritation indicates that the body reacts to the nail's intrusion as a minor injury.

Increased Warmth

Due to localized inflammation, the affected toe might feel warmer than usual. This heat is a natural response to irritation and can be a precursor to infection.

Difficulty Wearing Shoes

Footwear that once felt comfortable may cause discomfort as it rubs against the sensitive toe. Tight or closed-toe shoes may further aggravate the condition and intensify pain.

Visible Skin Irritation

You may notice the skin around the nail becoming harder or developing a raised appearance. Sometimes, the skin may grow over the nail's edge as a protective response.

How Ingrown Toenails Can Lead to Infection

If ignored, an ingrown toenail can break the skin and allow bacteria to enter, leading to infection. This infection is especially risky for people with diabetes or weakened immune systems. Recognizing the signs of infection early on is key to preventing complications. Here's what to look for:

Pus or Drainage

A clear or yellowish discharge from the side of the nail is often a sign of infection. This drainage may also be accompanied by increased swelling and tenderness in the area.

Persistent or Worsening Pain

The pain may become constant and severe, even when the toe isn’t being touched. As the infection deepens, inflammation can spread and intensify discomfort throughout the entire toe. 

Skin Discoloration

The area around the nail may darken or develop red streaks extending away from the site. These changes are signs that the infection may be spreading to surrounding tissue.

Foul Odor

Infected fluid or tissue breakdown can create an unpleasant smell from the affected toe. This odor often indicates that bacterial activity is present and worsening.

Fever or Chills

Systemic symptoms like a fever could indicate the infection is spreading and should be evaluated immediately. If left untreated, the body may react more aggressively, signaling a more serious condition.

Diagnosing and Treating an Ingrown Toenail

If you suspect an ingrown toenail—especially one that’s painful or showing signs of infection—prompt professional evaluation is essential. Diagnosis typically starts with a visual examination and discussing your symptoms and medical history. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition: mild cases may be managed at home with warm foot soaks and open-toed footwear to reduce pressure. More advanced or infected ingrown toenails often require partial or full nail removal under local anesthesia for proper healing. For chronic or recurring cases, a matrixectomy may be performed to permanently prevent the affected portion of the nail from growing back.

How to Prevent Future Ingrown Toenails

If you're dealing with pain, swelling, or signs of infection near a toenail, a professional evaluation can confirm whether it’s an ingrown toenail. Treatment depends on the severity, ranging from at-home care to minor procedures. Here are the most common treatment options used to manage and prevent ingrown toenails: 

Trim Nails Properly

Always cut toenails straight across rather than rounding the corners. Avoid cutting them too short. Proper trimming helps guide the nail to grow in the right direction and reduces the chance of it digging into the skin. 

Choose the Right Footwear

Wear shoes that allow your toes to move freely. Avoid tight or pointed styles that compress the toe box. Supportive, well-fitted shoes reduce pressure on the toes and help prevent nail irritation.

Keep Feet Clean and Dry

Practice good hygiene by washing your feet daily and thoroughly drying them, especially between the toes. A clean, dry environment discourages bacterial growth and skin breakdown that can lead to ingrown nails.

Avoid Trauma to the Toenails

Be cautious in environments where your feet are at risk of injury, and wear protective footwear when necessary. Even small injuries can alter nail growth and increase the risk of ingrown toenails. 

Monitor Nail Changes

If you notice any thickening, discoloration, or pain around the nail, address it early before it worsens. Catching these signs early allows for simple interventions before the condition progresses.

Don’t Ignore Discomfort

Even mild pain around the nail could indicate an ingrown toenail forming—early care makes a big difference. Taking action at the first sign of discomfort can prevent infection and the need for more invasive treatment.

When to See a Foot Specialist for Ingrown Toenails

While mild ingrown toenails can occasionally be managed at home, professional care is often necessary—especially if the condition recurs, becomes painful, or shows signs of infection. Those with diabetes, circulatory problems, or nerve damage should avoid self-treatment entirely, as complications can escalate quickly. Seeing a foot specialist ensures accurate diagnosis, proper treatment, and a thorough evaluation of your overall foot health to prevent future issues. Comprehensive care, including conservative methods and minor procedures, can provide lasting relief and restore comfort.

Take Action Early to Prevent Ingrown Toenail Complications

What may begin as a small irritation can quickly become a painful and potentially serious condition if left untreated. Early signs like tenderness, redness, and swelling should never be ignored, as prompt attention can prevent complications such as infection. Understanding the risk factors, trimming your nails properly, and wearing well-fitted footwear can significantly reduce your chances of developing an ingrown toenail. If you're experiencing symptoms or dealing with recurring issues, seeking care from a foot specialist is the best way to ensure proper treatment and lasting relief. You can protect your foot health and return to living comfortably with timely intervention and expert support.

Visit the Foot and Ankle Specialists of Arizona blog to learn more about how to tell if you have an ingrown toenail.