Ingrown toenails can be irritating, but usually, they straighten on their own. However, there are instances when having one warrants a visit to your local podiatry office. At Podiatry Associates of Rochester in New York, their foot specialists recommend contacting a doctor if any of the following apply.

5 Times an Ingrown Toenail Requires a Visit to the Podiatry Office

1. When Home Treatments Don’t Work

To treat an ingrown toenail without the help of a specialist, soak your foot in warm, salted water. Next, clean it with an antiseptic, and apply a bandage. If this doesn’t work, get in touch with a doctor who offers podiatry services and schedule an appointment.

2. When the Pain Is Excessive

Ingrown toenails dig into the skin of your toes, which can be irritating. However, the pain shouldn’t be debilitating. If it’s making you very uncomfortable and interfering with your day-to-day life, it’s time to call the doctor.

3. If You’re Diabetic

People who are diabetic or who suffer from poor circulation ought to contact a podiatry office as soon as they notice ingrown toenails. Those suffering from these conditions are more likely to develop infections if they attempt to treat the problem on their own.

4. If There’s Noticeable Redness & Swelling

An ingrown toenail will result in some degree of redness and swelling around the affected area. If it doesn’t subside or becomes particularly noticeable—the swelling might even make your shoes fit worse—it’s time to call a professional.

5. If They Keep Returning

If you’ve tried to trim your nails properly, are wearing better-fitting shoes, and have generally taken steps to avoid ingrown toenails, but they still develop frequently, make an appointment at a podiatry office to find out about other treatment options.

At Podiatry Associates of Rochester, with three locations throughout NY’s Monroe County area, they’ll offer a proper diagnosis and the right treatment for your needs. Contact them online to learn more about becoming a patient. For their Portland Avenue location, call (585) 342-8700, or dial (585) 426-7320 for the Buffalo Road practice.