An ingrown toenail occurs when the side of a toenail grows in into the flesh of the toe that causes pain and swelling. Ingrown toenails are unlikely to be fatal, but if left untreated, it can cause some complications such as an infection. If you have diabetes, a foot infection can be more serious.
According to the National Institutes of Health, ingrown toenails can have three stages.
Stage 1: The initial inflammatory process begins. There is swelling, redness and a buildup of fluid that can accumulate under and around the nail of the infected toe.
Stage 2: There is increased pain, discharge from the edge of the nail, and cause bacteria to possibly spread.
Stage 3: This is when hypertrophic granulation tissue will start to form, which only arises when you have continued to ignore seeking treatment.
If left untreated, the toenail infection can spread them to the bone beneath the nail. It can also lead to loss of blood flow, foot ulcers, or open sores around the infected area. In extreme cases, the infection can enter the bloodstream and cause sepsis, gangrene, or a flesh-eating disorder.
If you have an ingrown toenail, don’t leave it untreated. Seek help from a podiatrist who will review your overall health, examine the toe and extent of the problem, and map out a plan of treatment.