What does the presence of pus in an ingrown toenail indicate, and how should it be addressed?

When you see pus around an ingrown toenail, it is a sign that germs have caused an infection. Pus is a thick, yellowish or white fluid that the body makes when it is trying to fight off these germs. In addition to pus, you might notice the toe is more red, swollen, warm, and painful. At home, you can start by soaking your foot in warm water with mild soap to help clean the area and reduce swelling. After soaking, gently dry the toe and apply an over-the-counter antibiotic ointment to help treat the infection, covering it with a clean bandage. However, if the pus continues, the pain gets worse or the swelling increases, it is important to see a doctor. You can check your symptoms with a free online assessment to understand whether immediate medical attention is needed. A doctor might need to drain the pus and give you a stronger medicine like oral antibiotics or use treatments that help clear the infected tissue. Taking these steps can prevent the infection from worsening and help the toe heal properly.