I have and have had an ingrown toe nail for about 3 years...its in my big toe on both sides. I've really been neglecting it and it bleeds when I walk for long distances. Is there something I can do at home to fix it? I would prefer not to seek medical attention for this problem...due to my irresponbile actions and the guilt I feel about this situation prevents me from hearing a doctor go off on "You should have taken care of this a while ago", speeches. If I should seek medical attention and get over my insecurities (which probably wont happen) what sort of procedure should I expect to undergo? And if I don't...what will happen to my toe?

[This message has been edited by AnEleatic (edited 04-03-2003).]

<AnEleatic>:

I'm going to say what you already know but don't want to hear. GO SEE A DOCTOR ASAP! Be honest and 'fess up and tell him you know you should have come earlier, but. . . . If you have other health conditions (i.e., diabetes, etc.) this kind of thing can be life-threatening, believe it or not. You have probably already been through the "home remedies" and they obviously didn't work (for any length of time, that is). See a good, qualified podiatrist and let him take care of it once and for all. He can also probably give you some advice on how to keep this from happening again (or least tell you what to look for in the early stages and what to do about it). Break down and have it looked at. You will be glad you did in the long run.

Good luck. Hope all goes well.