Think I've got an ingrowing toenail, but I'm not sure, what's it feel like?

[MaureenMLove]

I'm not over keen on anything to do with feet or toes tbh, but needs must! I've had a sore spot on the side of my big toe for well over a month now. No sign of redness, but quite painful when I put pressure on it. Dh has given me the usual helpful support and told me if I go to the doctor they'll rip it out or refer me to have it removed under local. I don't know anyone whose had one, so I don't know the drill. Is there anything I can do myself or do I make an appointment? TIA

soak in salt water and dry thoroughly.

Roll a small piece of cotton wool and put between the nail adn the skin and see if that sorts it out. Otherwise you need to see a chiropodist- if through the NHS you need a referral from gp- otherwise you can find one in Yellow pages. They will advise what to do.

If you need to get it cut out they will make an appointment and they will do it witha local anasthestic and then burn the nail root at that part so it doesn't grow back

add- only that bit of the nail though- the rest of it will look normal

YUCK!!! Burning - nailroot - I'm really not good with feet! Will try salt water and cotton wool immediately though and hope for the best! Thanks Pixie!

Cut a triangle in the middle of the nail. This will encourage the nail to work towards meeting up again, thus taking the pressure off the side bits. IYKWIM.

Removing the whole thing is rarely necessary AFAIK. My SIL is a podiatrist and I've had her treat a couple on me. She generally just cuts the bit out that's ingrowing. It's not that bad!

Could have done with this in the middle of winter really, not really attractive in flip flops is it!

that's what i meant ceolas- only the little section that's ingrowing is removed

You need to hit it with a mallet - it will hurt like hell but you'll pass out and forget all about it .

I knew I could rely on you for some sympathy! Cheers love! Dh's already call me Frodo!

How would the triangle thing work as the nail is dead so wouldn't "know" it had been cut or to try to join.

Come with me Kbear - I don't do feet, I feel all squeezy already!{Mo shudddddders!}

What you need is a pair of plyers....

pliers even. Same thing!

Noooooo! I might need a valium or something, I don't even like DH touching feet with feet in bed!
I am going to be brave though, I'll wait for Kbear to have a day off work and she can hold my hand!

Seriously, you must deal before it goes septic cos then it will REALLY hurt. Ask my DD. She learnt a valuable "don't pick your toe nails" lesson!!

Soak it the hottest water you can bear, put on antiseptic cream and wrap in a plaster.

You forgot to say, put your flip flops away for a while!

oh yes, back in the yer hob nail boots maureen and clean up this bar!!!!