Ingrown nail

Ingrown nail

Big toe with an ingrown nail, showing redness and swelling

An ingrown nail is when a nail grows into the flesh at the side of the nail. This usually affects the toes, especially the big toe. An ingrown nail can get infected. It may be painful, red, and swollen, and it may drain pus. People with curved or thick nails are most likely to get ingrown nails.

Current as of: March 22, 2023

Author: Healthwise Staff
Medical Review:
William H. Blahd Jr. MD, FACEP - Emergency Medicine
Adam Husney MD - Family Medicine
Martin J. Gabica MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito MD - Family Medicine