“Rotten Egg” Gas Could Help Cure Stubborn Nail Infections, Study Finds
Scientists have discovered that a gas famous for its awful smell might actually heal nail infections. Researchers from the University of Bath and King’s College London believe hydrogen sulfide could pave the way for faster, safer treatments.
Why Nail Infections Are Hard to Treat
Nail infections affect millions of people worldwide. They become more common with age and can be especially serious for people with diabetes or weakened immune systems.
Traditional treatments take months or even years to work. Oral antifungals can cause side effects, while topical creams often fail to reach the infection hidden beneath the nail. Therefore, scientists are searching for smarter solutions.
Hydrogen Sulfide Shows Surprising Promise
Hydrogen sulfide (H₂S) is a natural gas best known for its rotten-egg smell. However, it may hold medical potential. Researchers found it can penetrate nails more easily than standard antifungal creams.In lab tests, the gas destroyed a wide range of fungi, including strains resistant to common treatments. It works by disrupting the fungi’s energy production, causing permanent damage.
A Step Toward Future Treatments
Dr. Albert Bolhuis from the University of Bath explained that this breakthrough could lead to effective topical medicines with fewer side effects. The research team believes hydrogen sulfide treatments could be ready for patients within five years.
Although the gas smells bad, scientists say the doses required are safe and odor-controlled. As a result, this discovery may soon bring relief to people suffering from stubborn nail infections.
