A redness around the nail with the nail edge growing into the skin — you might think it’s an ingrown nail. You’ve probably tried to relieve the inflammation, but the pain is becoming sharp. Who should you consult to treat an ingrown nail, and when is it necessary to see a specialist?

Specific care from a podiatrist for ingrown nails
A podiatrist is specialized in treating ingrown nails. They will carefully disinfect the nail and its surrounding area and perform an appropriate trim of the nail. They will then place a cotton pad between the nail and the skin to prevent further penetration. You will need to continue the treatment at home. It may be necessary to take antibiotics to stop or prevent the infection.
Find all the advice you need to treat your ingrown nail in our reference article.
For an initial opinion on your ingrown nail: visit your general practitioner
If you are unsure about the diagnosis of an ingrown nail, you can consult your general practitioner, who will confirm whether you need to see a specialist. If the infection requires special care, your doctor will refer you to a podiatrist.

When to consult for an ingrown nail?
It’s important to consult if you notice an infection or secondary infection in your ingrown nail. If the wound is red, swollen, contains pus, or if you have a fever, seek medical attention quickly. Also, if you suffer from diabetes, heart valve disease, or any immune or neurological disorder, you should consult without delay.