An ingrown toenail is a common problem where the nail grows into the toe. It can be painful, but there are things you can do to ease the pain.

You usually get an ingrown toenail on your big toe. But you can get them on any toe.

Your toe can also get infected.

Signs of an infected toe include:

• pus coming out of it
• you feel hot or shivery

If you go to a GP with an ingrown toenail, they'll usually suggest you try these things first.

You can ask a pharmacist about:

• treatments to help ease the pain and prevent an infection
• whether you need to see a GP

Find a pharmacy

See a GP if:

A GP can:

• check your toe to see if it's an ingrown toenail
• give you antibiotics if your toenail is infected

If you have a badly ingrown toenail, they may refer you to a foot specialist (podiatrist).

Treatment from a foot specialist

A podiatrist may offer further treatments, such as:

• cutting away part of the nail
• removing the whole nail

You'll have an injection of local anaesthetic to numb your toe when this is done.

Referral to a podiatrist on the NHS may not be available to everyone and waiting times can be long. You can pay to see a podiatrist privately.

Find a podiatrist

Self-refer to a podiatrist

If you have an ingrown toenail, you might be able to refer yourself directly to a podiatrist without seeing a GP.

To find out if there are any services in your area:

• ask the reception staff at your GP surgery
• check your GP surgery’s website
• contact your integrated care board (ICB) – find your local ICB
• search online for NHS podiatrists near you

To help stop ingrown toenails:

• do not cut your toenails too short
• cut straight across the nail, not the edges
• do not wear shoes that are too tight or do not fit properly
• keep your feet clean and dry them thoroughly