Getting a fungal infection on your toenails can cause the nails to turn yellow and brittle, and the bugs that cause the infection often emit a foul odor as they feed on your body. The same microorganisms that cause athlete’s foot also are the cause of fungal toenail infection. Once this infection spreads underneath your toenails, it can be difficult to eradicate, so contact your foot doctor for the right treatment.

Some excellent treatments for fungal toenail infections include the following:

• Oral and topical medications—Antifungal medications can be used internally and applied directly to the feet and toes to kill the microbes that are causing the infection. You can also spray the insides of your shoes with antimicrobials to prevent cross-contamination and renewed infections.
• Debridement and toenail removal surgery—Debridement is a shaving procedure that gradually shaves off the damaged nail, so antifungal medications can be more easily applied. In severe cases, the entire toenail will have to be removed to eradicate the infection. A new, healthy nail will eventually grow into place.

You can avoid getting fungal infections on your feet in the first place by taking some simple steps:

• Proper hygiene—Keep your feet clean and dry. Carefully wash and dry your feet at least once a day to wash away accumulating germs and fungi.
• Protect your feet—Whenever you are in public areas like locker rooms, pools, and showers.
• Avoid cross-contamination—Since fungi can spread to other areas and other people, never share your nail files, clippers, or footwear with other people.

If you need help treating a smelly fungal infection on your feet or toenails, make an appointment to see your foot doctor. Call Syracuse Podiatry, located in East Syracuse, New York. Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico, and Dr. Donal M. Erickson and their staff will help you diagnose and treat your foot or ankle condition. Call 315-446-3668 or make an appointment online today.