Athlete’s foot is a fungal infection of the skin and is also known as tinea pedis. Fungus likes to live where it is warm, dark and moist and as a result, people with sweaty feet are more susceptible to developing this type of infection. Athlete’s foot can be uncomfortable, smell bad and may even lead to other types of infections which could interfere with treatment and recovery. Fungal infections are contagious and can be spread from person-to-person. Additionally, if your immune system is compromised, you may also be more at risk.
While sweating and sweaty feet are normal to help us to cool down, there can come a time where it starts to cause problems. Beyond just a stinky smell, a medically excessive amount of sweating is called hyperhidrosis, and on the feet, plantar hyperhidrosis. This can lead to: