General information, not an individual diagnosis. Ask a healthcare professional if you are unsure about your situation.
To help prevent ingrown toenails, trim toenails straight across rather than rounding the corners. Leave two to three millimetres beyond the toe.
Sit somewhere well lit after washing. Clean instruments with alcohol and avoid inserting pointed objects beneath the nail when cleaning it.
Choose shoes wide enough for toes to move. Ask for help if reduced vision or flexibility makes cutting your nails difficult.
Severe pain interfering with walking needs a consultation in the coming days. Seek advice also with diabetes, peripheral arterial disease, heart valve disease, or a neurological or immune condition.
Seek medical care the same day if you have a fever, if the toe is red and swollen with pus and throbbing pain, or if a tender red line extends along the foot or calf.
Have persistent inflammation after two days of care or a worsening toe assessed. Cutting deeper does not replace the medical assessment needed.
Sources
Your health review
Review your health
Mon bilan prévention is an appointment to discuss your habits and choose your health priorities. Review the four age groups and practical information.