A toe infection can cause pain, swelling, redness, and pus discharge.

Types of toe infections include a range of bacterial or fungal infections, trauma, and ingrown toenails.

These infections, while common, can lead to serious complications if not treated promptly and properly.

Doctor examining patient’s toe

Irina Tiumentseva / Getty Images

It is important to note that the jot down of infection you have determines your symptoms.

People with diabetes are at increased risk forfoot infections.

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, check your feet daily for signs of injury or infection.

Other common causes of ingrown toenails include:

The biggest risk associated with an ingrown toenail is infection.

Treatment

Treatment for an infected toe depends on the key in of infection.

Fungal and bacterial infections require different treatments and medications.

Sometimes the entire nail must grow out, which can take 1218 months.

Also, healthcare providers may choose a combination of therapies to treat a fungal infection more effectively.

Treatment varies for a bacterial infection of the toe.

This is typically an in-office procedure done using a numbing local anesthetic (e.g., lidocaine).

The ingrown nail section is cut away and removed, allowing the toe inflammation to subside.

The ingrown nail usually does not return.

The great news is that you’re able to manage toe infections effectively with proper treatment and care.

Intermountain Health.Caring for an Infected or Ingrown Toenail.

American Diabetes Association Professional Practice Committee.12.

Retinopathy, Neuropathy, and Foot Care: Standards of Care in Diabetes2025.Diabetes Care.

2025;48(Supplement_1):S252-S265.

doi:10.2337/dc25-S012

MedlinePlus.Fungal nail infection.

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Nail fungus: who gets and causes.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Ringworm and fungal nail infections basics.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About sepsis.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.About cellulitis.

American Osteopathic College of Dermatology.Erythrasma.

Carek PJ, Dickerson LM, Sack JM.Diagnosis and management of osteomyelitis.

Seattle Childrens Hospital.Wound Infection.

American Academy of Dermatology Association.Nail fungus: Diagnosis and treatment.

Merck Manual - Consumer Version.Ingrown Toenail.