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Your
Foot Book
Those Smelly Feet
Plantar Bromhidrosis is a condition in which the plantar surface (sole) of the foot sweats excessively. The eccrine glands (3,000 per square-inch) on the sole of the foot produce increased sweat in response to hyperemotional states, fear, anxiety (that important job interview), heat, increased fluid ingestion, salicylates such as aspirin, and certain other endocrine problems. This increased sweating and heat (from poorly ventilated shoes) provide an ideal place for bacteria (propionic bacteria) to grow on the skin. Bacterial breakdown of the most outer skin layers produces isovaleric acid and extremely foul foot odor. Treatment involves decreasing sweating and bacteria formation. Well-ventilated shoes with open-weave fabric or soft leather upper may reduce heat, allow increased air circulation, and allow moisture to evaporate. You should also rotate your shoes allowing each pair to dry a day between wearing. Wear a fresh pair of clean socks every day or even take an extra clean pair along to change into if your feet are especially sweaty. Dry socks such as polypropylene allow moisture to wick away from the foot, as do moisture-absorbing insoles such as Dryz . Frequent sock changes also may help. Antibiotic creams can reduce bacteria. Absorbent solutions such as Drysol contain aluminum chloride, which is found in many deodorants. This will help to decrease sweating when used on a regular basis. Other treatments such as iontophoresis, use medications to reduce sweating, and rare surgical techniques require treatment by a physician. Your family doctor or dermatologist may be able to help in these severe cases. This material does not constitute medical advice. It is intended for informational purposes only. Foot Menders will not answer medical questions via email. Please consult a physician for specific treatment recommendations. |
Malodorous
or stinking feet have been the source of many jokes and social commentary.
However, for patients whose feet excessively sweat and smell, it
can be a case of shame and emotional trauma; and lead to unwanted
anxiety, social isolation, and shoe destruction.