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Symptom Checker

Ingrown Toenails

An ingrown toenail develops when the edge or corner of the nail presses into the surrounding skin. The toe can become tender, red, swollen or infected.

Cutting nails too short, rounding the corners, tight shoes, toe injuries and naturally curved nails can all contribute.

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AAP Guide to Ingrown Toenails

The AAP guide below explains home care, prevention and when the nail may need a procedure.

AAP Symptom CheckerIngrown toenail

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Symptom CheckerIngrown toenail New tab

When to see a doctor

Contact your pediatrician or another healthcare professional if:

  • Pus, spreading redness or significant swelling develops.
  • Pain is severe or prevents normal walking.
  • The ingrown nail keeps returning.
  • Your child has diabetes, poor circulation or a weakened immune system.
  • Home care is not improving the problem.

Call 911 or get emergency care if:

  • Infection spreads rapidly and your child appears severely ill.
  • Your child has any life-threatening emergency.

Talk to a nurse now, at any hour

When can my child be seen

Be seen today.

Every office keeps same-day appointments for illness and injury.

This evening or at the weekend.

Most offices run After Hours Care, by appointment rather than walk-in.

If you are worried, call. We would rather answer a question that turns out to be nothing.

More on knocks, pain and injuries

See the rest of this group and all 164 symptoms