Sweating is normal and something we likely do every day! Significant sweating, known as hyperhidrosis, occurs when excessive moisture accumulates on the skin. If this occurs in the feet, you may experience discomfort, embarrassment or even issues such as Athlete’s foot or foul odour.
What happens when our feet excessively sweat?
- Wrinkled or “pruned” looking toes
- Whiteish skin
- Peeling skin
- Moist socks
- Wet footprints left behind on floors
- Dampness inside shoes
Sweaty feet are more likely to become problematic when they are trapped inside a shoe all day. This allows moisture to stay in contact with the skin for too long and may increase the risk for infections. Fungal infections commonly target the skin and nails of our feet and can be challenging to eradicate. Additionally, the presence of bacteria may create issues for the skin in between the toes and on the bottoms of the feet. Erythrasma and pitted keratolysis are bacterial infections that can be quite unpleasant. If you notice your feet are stinky, you could have developed bromhidrosis, a complication of hyperhidrosis caused by the presence of bacteria.
It is important to remember that infections can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Getting the moisture level in your socks, shoes and feet under control is an excellent first step to prevent complications!
How can you treat and prevent sweaty feet?
- Change socks daily and throughout the day if needed. Choose socks comprised of breathable and moisture wicking materials. Polyester, nylon and wool are most effective at keeping the moisture level more balanced and skin on the feet healthier.
- Wear shoes made of breathable materials such as leather or mesh. Rubber boots and Gore-Tex shoes are water-resistant and useful in wet weather, but this means they are inherently less breathable.
- Wash your feet daily to keep the surface of the skin clean which will reduce the risk for fungal and bacterial infections. Fungus and bacteria thrive in warm, dark, and moist environments. Â If an odour is present, using an anti-bacterial soap to wash feet can help.
- Applying rubbing alcohol or using a foot powder can help to wick away moisture on the skin. Rubbing alcohol is an astringent which dries the skin and an antiseptic which cleans the skin. Some foot powders are formulated with anti-microbials to lessen the presence of fungus and bacteria. Powder can also cool and soothe irritated skin.
- At the end of a long day, allow your feet to air out!
Come See Us!
If you think you could have an infection, contact your Primary Care Provider or your BioPed Medical Footcare Clinician as soon as possible to be assessed. For more information about sweaty feet, give your local BioPed a call today to book an appointment. See you soon!
