Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for an ingrown toenail. This is when the side or corner of the toenail grows into the flesh around it. It usually affects the big toe. You probably have pain, redness, and swelling where the nail has grown into your flesh.
The doctor thinks your ingrown toenail is not severe and not infected. You can treat it at home.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Always wash your hands before and after you touch your foot.
●Soak your foot in warm, soapy water. Do this for 10 to 20 minutes, 2 to 3 times a day, for 1 to 2 weeks. You can also use 1 to 2 teaspoons of Epsom salts (available in pharmacies) in the water instead of soap.
●Place a small piece of a cotton ball or some dental floss underneath the nail to take pressure off your toe.
●If the doctor cut away part of your toenail in the ED:
•Clean the area 2 to 3 times a day. Make a mixture of equal parts water and hydrogen peroxide, and dab it on your toe with a cotton swab.
•Put antibiotic ointment on your toe. Examples include bacitracin or mupirocin (brand name: Bactroban).
●Try to prevent getting more ingrown toenails:
•Wear shoes that are not too tight around your toes.
•Cut your toenails straight across and not too short.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if you:
●Have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills
●Cannot walk because of pain
●Have signs of infection, like swelling, more redness or warmth, or discharge that is yellowish, greenish, or bloody
●Have new or worsening symptoms
