11 Reasons Why Your Feet Sweat Excessively
Do your feet sweat excessively? Don’t worry! We’ve all had this problem at some point in time and we know it can be quite bothersome. Fortunately, for most, it’s just an isolated occurrence resulting from a long walk or a very hot climate.
However, if this turns into a recurring problem you should know that there could be many reasons for it, but it’s generally just a common condition. In rare cases, it could be due to a medical condition or inadequate hygiene.
Here we’ll tell you the reasons why your feet sweat excessively. Pay close attention to see which one applies to you. But if you are not able to control it, you should see a podiatrist so that he can help you find a solution.
1. Your feet sweat excessively because you choose the wrong footwear
This is one of the main reasons why your feet sweat excessively, but also one of the easiest to fix, according to a study from the University of Barcelona.
Shoes are very important items, but we rarely give them the attention they need. If you normally use shoes made out of synthetic materials or tie them tightly you’ll suffer the consequences.
- Footwear that doesn’t have enough ventilation or that’s made from inadequate materials increases the perspiration of your feet.
- Ideally, you should choose shoes made from natural materials and with good ventilation.
- Furthermore, they should adapt to your needs and not cause ingrown toenails.
2. Poor quality socks
Synthetic and plastic fibers in your socks have become very common. This can happen due to economic reasons or because you found a style of socks that you like because of its texture.
- The bad news is that synthetic fibers increase the temperature of your feet.
- This won’t be a problem during the cold season or at night. However, in hot climates or while playing sports, this can present a problem.
3. Your feet are prisoners of your shoes
Perhaps you are a very busy person and your feet are trapped in shoes all day. If you don’t take the time to use sandals or comfortable shoes you could find that your feet sweat excessively.
- Try to take your shoes off for a few hours during the afternoon and evening.
- To prevent injuries use a good pair of shower shoes. Also, it’s a good idea to use open shoes for one or more days of the week.
4. Diet
It’s likely that you haven’t thought about it, or even believe it, but there are foods that increase the perspiration of your feet. According to information from the website IntraMed, that’s the case with spicy foods, soft drinks, and caffeine.
- If your feet sweat excessively, avoid these foods for a few days or weeks.
- If you notice an improvement then be sure to limit the consumption of these products in the future.
5. Health problems
Other reasons why your feet may sweat excessively could be illnesses such as:
- Diabetes (according to the Mayo Clinic).
- Illnesses that alter the nervous system (according to a study from the Air Forces Hospital in Chile).
- Liver problems
- Some people believe that constipation causes sweaty feet, though there isn’t any scientific evidence to support this claim.
If you’re sure your footwear and socks are good quality and your diet is free of the foods mentioned above, but the problem persists, go get a medical exam done to rule out any of these medical problems.
6. Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is a condition that can only be diagnosed by your doctor. If you suspect you might have hyperhidrosis don’t be alarmed. According to this study from the Clinical Hospital of Salamanca, it can be treated.
It’s caused by the sweat glands not functioning properly in certain areas of the body; therefore, they produce an excessive amount of sweat without any apparent reason.
There are treatments available to control hyperhidrosis. Severe cases may surgery.
7. Poor hygiene
This is an obvious reason that could make your feet sweat excessively. If you don’t maintain a proper hygiene regimen, it’s very likely that your feet will begin to sweat excessively.
The body excretes toxins through sweat. If these toxins are trapped in the feet they’ll look for a way out, making your feet sweat excessively.
It would be wise to:
- Always wash your feet
- Dry them properly
- Change your socks daily
- Use talcum powder
8. Emotional factors
A reason why your feet may be sweating excessively could be your emotional state. Anxiety, according to this study from the Virtual Health Library of Honduras, could be one of the causes.
It’s likely that your feet sweat when you are in situations where you feel nervous, mad, afraid, stressed, or excited.
If you are going through a period where your emotions are out of control, try to calm down to avoid excessive sweat.
9. Genetics
A study from the University Pediatric Hospital of Holguin, Cuba, excessive perspiration can sometimes be genetic.
Have you noticed that members of your family sweat a lot? If that’s the case, you don’t have too many options, other than looking for cosmetic products to control the problem.
10. Infections
Infections find a perfect place to reside in feet with poor hygiene. A study from the University of the Andes found that mycoses can produce bad odors wherever they are.
- The proliferation of fungus is the result of the maceration of bacteria which can affect both the nails and the rest of the foot.
- If you suffer from this condition, there are creams you can use. These creams can be found at the pharmacy and are very affordable. If your problem is more serious, talk to a podiatrist.
Read also:
3 Foot Fungus Remedies for a Total Solution
11. Attached to a pair of shoes
Do you have a pair of shoes you won’t get rid of because they’re your favorites? Do you use the same pair of shoes for more than two days in a row?
If you have a pair of shoes that you really like, buy more than one pair of them.
That way you can have various colors to choose from, which will make it easier to coordinate with your different outfits, and you’ll be able to air out one pair while you wear the other.
All cited sources were thoroughly reviewed by our team to ensure their quality, reliability, currency, and validity. The bibliography of this article was considered reliable and of academic or scientific accuracy.
- Asensio E. Principales problemas podológicos originados por el calzado de seguridad. Universidad de Barcelona. 2014.
- Benson R, Palin R, Holt P, Loftus I. Hiperhidrosis. BMJ. 2013; 347:f6800.
- Zamarín J, Egaña J, Berríos R. Calidad de vida en pacientes con hiperhidrosis primaria sometidos a simpatectomía videotoracoscópica. Rev Chil Cir. 2011;63(5):498-503.
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- González D, Pérez O. Actualización en hiperhidrosis focal primaria. Med Cutan Iber Lat Am 2012;40(6):173-180.
- López D, Palomo P, Morales A, Sánchez R. Aproximación al manejo de la hiperhidrosis en el pie. Revista Internacional de Ciencias Podológicas. 2013;7(2):89-97.
