Hyperhidrosis is excessive sweating, while Bromidrosis refers to the sometimes-accompanying offensive foot odour. The mechanisms that control the amount of sweat produced by the glands in the soles of feet, are different to those that control sweating in other bodily surfaces.

Symptoms

Perspiration is moisture, which discharges through the skin as water vapour. On the palms and soles, the sweat glands secrete continuously, and are not part of the body's temperature control mechanisms. There are no sebaceous glands in the skin of the palms or soles, and although sweating may be caused by a rise in temperature, it can also be due to mental or sensory stimuli.

Causes

Foot odour usually occurs when perspiration from the feet mixes with bacteria in the shoes. Slow evaporation of sweat from the skin will cause breakdown of the sweat. Mental or emotional stress, tired or strained feet can all cause excessive sweating. Maceration of the palms or soles may cause excessive perspiration, and friction may reduce the body's resistance to sweat.

Treatment and Prevention

Wear shoes that allow the feet to breath. Also changing socks once throughout the day will help to decrease moisture. There are several over-the-counter products that can help control odour including foot odour powders and insoles. Keeping the feet clean and dry is a good preventative measure also. Other measures include:

Not allowing sweat to remain in contact with skin for prolonged periods.

Using antiseptics and fungicides to counteract the bacterial breakdown of sweat.

Using footbaths and drying with a separate rough towel.

Aerating the feet to allow evaporation of sweat. Avoidance of wearing socks in hot weather, or wearing sandals.

Surgical spirit, calamine lotion, aluminium acetate, copper sulphate, witch hazel, and salicylic acid can be used as lotions/solutions.

Foot Baths using Epsom Salts, Potassium Permanganate, Chlorxylenol, Cresol, and Formalin may be helpful.

Dusting powders consisting of kaolin, talc, zinc-oxide, bismuth carbonate as bases contain astringents and ingredients that may help.

Dr. A. Bose
© allcures.com September 2002