Sweaty Feet
Sweaty feet is the informal name for a condition called hyperhidrosis. An excessive production of sweat from the soles of the feet, does not suggest any disease. It generally affects young adult males, particularly in the summer months.
There are more sweat glands on the feet than anywhere else on the body. Their function is to keep the skin moist and supple. They secrete sweat all the time, but especially during exercise and when the feet get hot.
During adolescence, the sweat glands may become over active due to hormonal changes. They also respond to emotional and mental stresses.
Clothing and shoes may become saturated with sweat, and can become smelly. If the condition is left untreated it can cause secondary problems such as contact dermatitis and athletes foot.
What to do with sweaty feet
- Personal hygiene is very important. Practice a daily routine, such as :
- Wash feet morning and evening with warm soapy water. Avoid hot water, as this can increase sweating.
- Dry feet thoroughly with a clean dry towel, paying particular attention to in between the toes.
- Apply an astringent such as surgical spirit on cotton wool.
- Change socks or stockings at least once a day.
- Expose feet to as much air as possible, especially in the summer months.
- When possible wear sandals rather than enclosed shoes.
- Try not to wear trainers all day, or at least have two pairs that you can change around.
- Avoid shoes that are made from man-made materials as they do not allow the feet to breathe.
- Socks help to absorb moisture, especially wool, cotton or a wool/cotton mixture.
- Use of detachable insoles can help, especially insoles designed to keep the feet dry rather than the odour destroyers.
- Try not to worry about it as this can make it worse.
- A podiatrist or chiropodist can advise you on specific treatment and recommend possible astringents or lotions that may help. If the problem is a result of a structural defect they can prescribe appliances to improve the function of the feet.
The following treatments can be purchased at the chemist shops:
Surgical spirit - apply with cotton wool once or twice a day.
Anti-perspirant foot spray - spray evenly on feet before dressing.
Essential Oils - aAdd a few drops of patchouli and teatree oil to a bath, or make up a foot spray with a few drops in water.