Foot Problems Slideshow Pictures

Medical Author:

Allison Harvey, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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When to Seek Medical Care

Anytime an ingrown toenail has developed into an infection (drainage, a fever, lighter skin surrounded by red skin, or worsening pain and swelling), see a doctor.

Even if the ingrown toenail is only inflamed without infection, see a doctor if the following conditions also occur:

• if it has been more than five years since your last tetanus booster shot;



• if there is no improvement after three days of home care;



• if you have diabetes, poor circulation, AIDS, are on chemotherapy, or have another reason for poor wound healing or an increased risk of infection.

Most ingrown toenails can be managed in the doctor's office. However, go to the emergency department (by car, not ambulance) if these circumstances develop:

• if you have diabetes or are at increased risk for infection and your regular physician is unavailable (even if the toe is not infected yet);



• if you have diabetes or are at increased risk for infection and have any fever or signs of infection in the toe.