What causes sweaty feet?
Sep 22, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Wenmin
Introduction
In general, excessive sweating of the feet may be caused by factors such as emotional stress, high ambient temperature, hypoglycemia, menopausal syndrome, or hyperthyroidism. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. In daily life, it is advisable to drink adequate amounts of water to replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, maintain a healthy lifestyle—including regular exercise and a balanced diet—and avoid prolonged hunger.
Under normal circumstances, excessive sweating of the feet may be caused by factors such as emotional stress, high-temperature environments, hypoglycemia, menopausal syndrome, or hyperthyroidism. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Emotional Stress
When a person feels tense or anxious, the sympathetic nervous system—the part of the autonomic nervous system—is activated, leading to increased sweating on the soles of the feet. This may be accompanied by symptoms such as palpitations, hand tremors, and dry mouth. Practicing relaxation techniques in daily life—such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga—can help regulate emotions.
2. High-Temperature Environment
In hot environments, the body sweats to dissipate heat and regulate body temperature. As the feet are one of the body's sweat-prone areas, perspiration increases accordingly. It is important to maintain good indoor ventilation, wear breathable shoes and socks, and avoid prolonged exposure to high temperatures.
3. Hypoglycemia
Long-term excessive dieting for weight loss or an unbalanced diet can lead to hypoglycemia. In response to insufficient energy supply, the body releases adrenaline, resulting in sweating of the hands and feet. This may be accompanied by dizziness, fatigue, trembling, and hunger. Patients may take medications such as oral glucose solution, glucose injection, or calcium gluconate tablets under medical guidance.
4. Menopausal Syndrome
During menopause, hormonal fluctuations in women may cause symptoms such as hot flashes and excessive sweating—including sweating of the feet—along with mood swings, insomnia, and joint pain. Women may use medications such as estradiol tablets, tibolone tablets, or Xiaoyao Pills under a doctor’s advice.
5. Hyperthyroidism
Hyperthyroidism, caused by genetic factors or significant emotional fluctuations, accelerates metabolism, leading to increased body heat and foot sweating. Symptoms may include weight loss, rapid heartbeat, and hand tremors. It is recommended to follow medical advice and use medications such as propylthiouracil tablets, methimazole tablets, or potassium iodide tablets for treatment.
In daily life, individuals should drink adequate fluids to replenish lost water and electrolytes, maintain a healthy lifestyle—including regular exercise and a balanced diet—and avoid prolonged fasting or extreme hunger.
