What causes severe foot sweating, and what should be done about it?

Nov 13, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Liu Wenmin

Introduction

In general, severe foot sweating may be caused by improper clothing, poor diet, excessive exercise, hyperhidrosis, or hyperthyroidism. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. It is important to keep the feet clean and dry, change shoes and socks regularly, and reduce bacterial growth. At the same time, wearing breathable and comfortable footwear can help reduce sweat secretion.

Excessive foot sweating is usually caused by improper clothing, poor diet, excessive physical activity, hyperhidrosis, or hyperthyroidism. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Improper Clothing

Wearing shoes and socks with poor breathability and low moisture absorption for extended periods may increase foot sweating. It is advisable to choose breathable, sweat-absorbent footwear and socks to reduce sweat secretion.

2. Poor Diet

Consuming excessive spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers, hot pot, and grilled items may stimulate sweat glands, leading to abnormally increased foot sweating. It is recommended to adjust dietary habits appropriately and reduce the intake of spicy and greasy foods.

3. Excessive Physical Activity

Prolonged intense exercise may cause continuous friction and heat buildup in the feet, resulting in severe sweating. It is advisable to rest appropriately before and after exercise and avoid prolonged consecutive physical activity.

4. Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis may be triggered by factors such as mental stress, hormonal imbalances, and endocrine disorders. Abnormal sweat gland secretion in the feet may lead to excessive sweating, often accompanied by symptoms like odor and itching. Treatment may include medications such as Ciwujia tablets, Vitamin B1 tablets, and Oryzanol tablets, taken as directed by a physician.

5. Hyperthyroidism

Hyperthyroidism is primarily associated with excessive iodine intake and abnormal parathyroid hormone levels. The condition can lead to increased metabolism and sympathetic nervous system activation, causing the aforementioned symptoms. It may also present with weight loss, increased appetite, and irritability. Medications such as Methimazole tablets, Propylthiouracil tablets, and Levothyroxine Sodium tablets may be used under a doctor's guidance.

Maintaining clean and dry feet, regularly changing socks and shoes, and minimizing bacterial growth are important in daily care. Wearing breathable and comfortable footwear can also help reduce sweat secretion.

View All

What causes itching, erosion, and peeling between the toes?

Itching, maceration, and peeling between the toes may be caused by poor hygiene, excessive foot sweating, friction irritation, athlete's foot (tinea pedis), eczema, or other conditions, and can be improved according to the specific cause. It is recommended to seek timely medical attention at a hospital and receive treatment under the guidance of a doctor. It is also advised to develop good hygiene habits, such as washing feet daily with warm water and thoroughly drying them afterward, especially between the toes.

View Full Answer

What to do about sweaty and smelly feet in autumn

In general, sweaty and smelly feet during autumn may be related to factors such as non-breathable footwear, poor foot hygiene, hyperthyroidism, hyperhidrosis, or athlete's foot, and targeted treatments can be applied accordingly. Non-breathable shoes hinder normal ventilation around the feet, preventing moisture from evaporating, which leads to excessive sweating and bacterial growth, ultimately causing odor.