Ingrown Toenail

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Comfortable, well-fitting shoes help to prevent ingrown toenails. Toenails should be trimmed regularly but not cut too short. People who have diabetes or circulation problems are often advised to have a foot specialist, known as a podiatrist, cut their toenails.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Ingrown toenails can be quite painful, but the most worrisome long-term effect is infection. When a person has diabetes or circulation problems, the infection can be quite serious. It may lead to complications such as a diabetic foot ulcer or sepsis, a widespread blood infection. Foot amputation or even death can result in this setting if the condition is not treated early.

What are the risks to others?

Ingrown toenails are not contagious, and pose no risk to others.