Can A Very Slight Ingrown Toenail For A Long Time With Redness And Swelling Be Treated?

Posted on Sat, 23 Jun 2018

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Sat, 23 Jun 2018 Answered on

Thu, 13 Jan 2022 Last reviewed on

Question : I've had a very slight ingrowing toenail for quite a while now, though have never had any pain with it. This morning I noticed a small pocket of pus just below my nail, and my toe was red and slightly swollen. I cleaned the skin up and got rid of the pus, and have been slathering my toe in Germolene for the day, as well as soaking it in a hot bath. I've been having no pain whatsoever, and the pus has not returned yet. As it small, and I have no pain, is it possible to avoid a trip to the doctor, and to keep treating it with Germolene? Would this help clear it up any infection at all?

Thank you!

Answered by Dr. Dr. Michelle Gibson (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
can add a topical antibiotic and monitor for now

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

Germolene is an antiseptic and would help reduce the chance of re infection. You may want to consider adding a topical antibiotic to this, one can be obtained over the counter.

With the use of both medications, it is possible that the infection would resolve.

You can monitor for the following- (1) recollection of pus
(2) occurrence of pain or swelling or increasing redness

If you notice any of the above, it is possible that the infection is recurring.

I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar