Getting rid of smelly toenails might be more difficult for some people. Smelly toenails are usually associated with sweaty feet and poor hygiene. The smell that would usually go away with a thorough wash for most is not the case for others. In some cases, the foul smell may have a medical cause. The discolored foul-smelling substance under the toenails that have a similar smell to cheese is likely to be toenail fungus.

Why getting rid of smelly toenails is important

Smelly toenail fungus can be a very distressing condition for many people. In general, toenail fungus can be something that is a cause of embarrassment, shame, and discomfort for many people. People with visible toenail fungus can be uncomfortable showing their toes at all. This is because of the visual symptoms that toenail fungus can cause. These symptoms can be pretty obvious and can make people stop doing activities that they enjoy like going to the beach or wearing sandals. The resulting decrease in enjoyment of life can be one of the worst parts of toenail fungus. When the fungus causes a lingering or emanating smell, it can cause even more embarrassment. This particular symptom is usually more noticeable than the others. 

Possible ways of toenail fungus infection

Toenail fungus or Onychomycosis usually causes the toenails to smell like rotten cheese. This unpleasant odor is caused by the fungus growing inside the nails. Other symptoms of toenail fungus include discoloration, thickening, and brittleness of the toenails. This condition is common in people who wear closed shoes for long periods of time. The feet are unable to breathe and become sweaty. This moist and dark environment is perfect for fungus to grow. Toenail fungus thrives in dark and damp environments. It can be worse when you do not wear socks. This makes it extremely hard to get rid of smelly toenails. When you don’t wear socks there is no tissue to absorb the sweat that is dispensed by your feet.

To prevent smelly odor from your nails, you should take preventative measures against fungal growth. If you are an athlete, change your socks and shoes immediately every time you exercise. Wash your feet when you shower and dry your feet well immediately after washing them. If the smelly odor from your nails is persistent, try wearing foot deodorant or antiperspirant. 

Getting rid of the smelly toenail fungus from your feet and prevent toenail fungus:

  • Dry your feet after washing. Don’t leave your feet damp because this encourages fungus to grow.
  • Wear antifungal socks.
  • Change socks regularly, especially if you have sweaty feet.
  • Use foot antiperspirant.
  • Use nail doctor-recommended antifungal shoe spray inside your shoes.
  • Wear proper-fitting shoes that allow your feet to breathe. Do not wear shoes that are too tight.
  • Clean under your toenails.
  • Trim your toenails often.
  • Apply the nail doctor-recommended antifungal solution to your feet and toenails twice a day after washing.

getting rid of toenail fungus

What happens if the smelly toenail fungus is not treated

If you will not treat the infection, toenail fungus would get worse along with the foul smell. The fungus can also spread to the foot and cause the athlete’s foot or even to your fingernails. You should take care of your feet and clean them on a regular basis to avoid infection. If you suspect to have toenail fungus, you should seek treatment as soon as possible to prevent it from getting worse.

Getting rid of smelly toenails once and for all

getting rid of toenail fungus

To get rid of smelly toenails and prevent the cheesy, smelly odor of toenails from becoming noticeable to other people, the root cause should be treated as quickly as possible. A podiatrist will be able to tell you if the smell is because of a toenail fungus, or some other issue. The nail doctors in the Austin, Tx office will be able to treat your toenail fungus with the PinPointe laser immediately. To schedule a consultation with our nail doctor for the laser treatment, give us a call at 1-(800) 672-0625 or visit our website for more information.