Toenail fungus odor can be embarrassing. If you have toenail fungus, one of the things that may be bothering you is the foul odor that accompanies it. Many patients with toenail fungus complain that their feet emit a cheese-like odor. What is it about toenail fungus that causes the feet to smell like cheese?
Why Does Toenail Fungus Cause an Odor?
The cheesy smell from your feet is caused by a bacteria called Brevibacterium. In most moist environments, it thrives and grows on your feet. Brevibacterium happens to be the bacteria used to mature certain types of particularly funky-smelling cheeses, such as Munster cheese. It is the bacteria that causes this smell in the cheese, as well as from your feet.
So why is it that the odor is often accompanied by toenail fungus infections? The warm and moist environment of your feet inside your shoes also promotes fungal growth. So, usually, toenail fungus and bacterial infections co-occur.
It is considered to be generally harmless to your health in most cases. Fungal infections can spread to other parts of the body or family members, and cause adverse effects on your health. If you notice a cheese-like odor from your feet, this may be an indication of a possible toenail fungus infection. The odor can be uncomfortable for you. It can cause discomfort to your family as well. It also may cause you to be self-conscious about wearing opened-toes shoes.
Laser Treatment for Nail Fungus
If you have caught nail fungus, it can be easily treated using the FDA-approved PinPointe laser, which typically only takes on treatment. Other treatments like topical solutions and oral medication are not as effective. Topical solutions have a very low cure rate. This is because the solution does not penetrate all the way through the nail bed. This is because it can lead to liver toxicity. You would need to have consistent blood tests throughout the course of taking the medication.
Our nail doctor in Boca Raton, FL recommends this treatment for Toenail Fungus. The PinPointe Laser treatment has the highest cure rate in the market. It has no side effects and no recovery period. As a result, you can go about your daily activities right after the treatment. Also, it is not painful.
If you have any signs of nail fungus, call us at (800) 672-0625 or visit our website for more information on our doctors at one of our over 150 locations.
