arib: (Default)
arib ([personal profile] arib) wrote2004-07-19 11:16 pm

advice requested...



So, I think I might have an ingrown toenail in one of my big toes.

Advice? Is this something I can deal with on my own, or do I need a podiatrist?

[identity profile] hfcougar.livejournal.com 2004-07-19 08:28 pm (UTC)(link)
The intar-web seems to say that about all you can do at home is soak your foot in warm water, and try to insert some cotton or dental floss between the nail and the skin. The sites I looked at (briefly)seem skeptical this will actually resolve the problem on a more than transitory basis.

If you have insurance that doesn't totally blow (do you have insurance at all?) I'd just visit your general everyday physician. You shouldn't need a podiatrist unless it's really severe.

[identity profile] arib.livejournal.com 2004-07-19 08:29 pm (UTC)(link)
I have BCBS of a decent sort, and should probably go see de doc, yeah.

Thanks. :-)

[identity profile] chaiya.livejournal.com 2004-07-19 09:45 pm (UTC)(link)
I had severe ingrown toenails up until my previous foot surgery, in which we took drastic measures to operate them away. It's not for the squeamish, and it's not for a small problem. Definitely talk to your doctor, and make sure you discuss how much discomfort this is causing you and how long you've had this problem.

*hugs*

[identity profile] arib.livejournal.com 2004-07-20 06:41 am (UTC)(link)
At this point, it's only a little bit annoying, and has been noticeable for a day or two. I tried using nailclippers to address some of it, and it helped a bit, but not much.

I'll probably try to see my doc next week, before I start COBRA-ing.

[identity profile] lizardling.livejournal.com 2004-07-20 12:18 pm (UTC)(link)
What [livejournal.com profile] chaiya said -- it's not for the squeamish. I know, since my Dad got me to watch him do one years ago. I still turn green thinking about it.