Can you die or lose your toe due to a infected ingrown toenail?

Co-morbidity: In the population over 65, amputations are preceded by wounds on the feet and toes, such as a neglected ingrown toenail. This age group has co morbidity, (additional diagnoses) such as vascular disease and neuropathy. So don't ignore an ingrown toenail, especially if you are older. They are easily treated in the office of any surgeon, podiatrist and many primary care docs, or an urgent care.

While it's possible: It is unlikely at your age. You need to get it treated or the infection can spread, possibly even to bone. That would cause more serious problems like the ones you are asking about. See a podiatrist right away for treatment. Most of us leave time slots open in our schedules for emergencies... Like yours!

Yes...: Although uncommon, if an infection becomes severe enough, it could lead to loss of your toe, or limb. If it spreads, you could become septic, and in rare instances it could lead to death. Get it treated. Leaving an ingrown nail untreated could lead to the development of an abscess and possible underlying bone infection. Get it taken care of by a professional to avoid preventable complications.

Technically yes: Though this typically only occurs in people with severe medical problems such as severe diabetes and other conditions that weaken the immune system or in severe poor circulation. Even in this population, if treated quickly you can often avoid. It's not so much the ingrown toenail as it is the ingrown nail that starts a cascade of unfortunate events.

For most people, no: If you are generally healthy and have good circulation in your feet you are not likely to lose a toe from an infected ingrown nail. Ingrown nails act like foreign bodies and should be treated promptly. Removing the offending border of the nail is like removing a piece of glass or splinter from you skin. Once it's out, you heal quickly and the infection clears.