Diagnosis
Precise diagnostics in the context of purulent inflamed toes is therefore important, since an optimal therapy should also refer to the respective cause. Especially in the case of ingrown toenails, a change in certain behavioral measures can already lead to healing of the inflammation. Nail bed inflammation can be distinguished from ingrown toenails both externally and in the type of inflammatory process. In case of uncertainty, a podiatrist or a physician should be consulted. They will take a close look at the toe and ask some questions about the inflammation.
Therapy
The respective treatment depends on the cause of the pus and can therefore vary greatly. In any case, sufficient protection of the affected foot, the application of ointments and warm foot baths is indicated. In addition, tight shoes should be avoided.
Regular ventilation and cleansing are also important for the fastest possible recovery. In the case of very advanced and long-lasting symptoms of nail bed inflammation or infected wounds, antibiotic therapy may be necessary and should be clarified by a doctor. In the case of ingrown toenails, in addition to the above-mentioned treatments, the avoidance of risk factors such as tight shoes or incorrect nail cutting may be considered.
Further conservative therapies are the insertion of absorbent cotton rolls between nail and skin, as well as the application of a suitable nail correction brace. The latter mentioned procedures are performed by a podiatrist and should be discussed with him or her. The ultima ratio (last resort) in the case of therapy failure of the strategies mentioned above is surgical intervention, for example in the form of an Emmert’s plasty.
In this procedure, a wedge-shaped removal of the nail and adjacent nail receptacle is performed on the affected side of the nail in order to narrow the toenail. In addition to adequate protection and the wearing of suitable footwear, some ointments are also recommended to shorten the course and alleviate the discomfort. Wound ointments, pulling ointments or antiseptic (disinfecting) ointments such as iodine ointment or Betaisodona can be used for this purpose.
These can kill bacteria and prevent their increased penetration or growth. Inflammatory ointments soften the inflamed tissue, making it easier for pus to escape. This removes the pressure and reduces the pain.
Other ointments can also have cooling and pain-relieving functions. There are numerous home remedies that are used in the context of an inflamed toe. In addition to the ointments already mentioned, such as wound ointment, pulling ointment or antiseptic iodine ointment, warm foot baths can be used.
In addition, other household remedies such as camomile, tea tree oil or calendula are usually added to the water. Warm foot baths soften the inflamed tissue, which allows pus to escape and reduces the pain. Other possible household remedies are cooling quark or arnica compresses, which have a pain-relieving effect and can reduce the inflammation.
Homeopathic remedies such as hepar sulfuris, Silicea or Belladonna can also be helpful and should be discussed with a homeopath. If the symptoms become increasingly worse or do not improve after sufficient care and the application of ointments, the first point of contact can be the family doctor or a podiatrist. A podiatrist is a non-medical alternative practitioner who specializes in feet and carries out all non-invasive measures independently. In most cases, they will be able to initiate appropriate treatment and alleviate the symptoms. In case of very advanced inflammation or chronic course, a referral to a dermatologist or surgeon can be made.
