Suffering from Super Sweaty Soles?
Sweaty feet can be embarrassing to deal with. If you’ve got a date over or if you’re at a friend’s house, it can be tough to take your shoes off. Sometimes, even in the middle of the winter, your feet feel soaked with sweat – it can be absolutely relentless! You’re not alone in this battle though. Here at Maple Springs Foot Center, Dr. Stuart Snyder is here to help.
The condition that causes excessively sweaty feet is called hyperhidrosis. It’s a relatively common condition that affects many people all over the world. It presents more commonly in teens and young adults than in children, adults, or elderly people.
What causes sweaty feet?
Unfortunately, there is not a pinpointed cause of hyperhidrosis. For some people sweating is brought about by rigorous activity. For others, anxiety and nervousness start the sweating. In some people, anemia and hyperthyroidism can cause hyperhidrosis because the body is thrown out of balance. But for some people, they just have overactive sweat glands and can’t pinpoint what sets them off!
What can I do to counter it?
Solid foot hygiene is core to treating hyperhidrosis and its associated issues. Wash your feet daily in warm water with antibacterial soap – be sure to wash the soles and between the toes. Dry them and apply a foot powder to your feet before slipping socks on. Wear wicking socks made of natural materials that won’t trap the moisture inside. Avoid heavy cotton socks. If you can, bring a pair of socks to change into halfway through your day. Your shoes should be made of breathable materials that allow your feet to air out a little.
Other treatments include:
- Iontophoresis: mild electrical current passed through water. You can purchase iontophoresis for at-home use
- Roll-on antiperspirants applied to the feet
- Oral prescription medication
- Sympathectomy, a surgical procedure that interrupts the nerve signals (only in extreme cases)
When should I see my podiatrist?
If you have super sweaty feet and can’t figure out why, call your podiatrist. A foot doctor can help find ways to curb this condition and make you confident in your feet.
If you’re dealing with excessively sweaty feet, give us a call. Dr. Stuart Snyder here at Maple Springs Foot Center is here to help assess and treat any foot or ankle issues you might be experiencing. To get in touch, request an appointment online or call our office conveniently located in Gaithersburg, MD at 301-762-3338.
