What causes feet to emit a sweet-smelling odor, and what should be done about it?
Sep 22, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Liu Qingyun
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, a sweet-smelling odor from the feet may be related to factors such as excessive sweating, bromhidrosis, eczema, athlete's foot, or hyperthyroidism, and requires symptomatic treatment. The feet contain numerous small sweat glands; if physical activity has recently increased, leading to excessive sweating, this can result in unpleasant odors from the soles and between the toes. Patients are advised to wash their feet regularly, pay attention to changing socks and shoes frequently, and use breathable footwear and socks.
Under normal circumstances, a sweet-smelling foot odor may be related to factors such as excessive sweating, bromhidrosis, eczema, athlete's foot (tinea pedis), or hyperthyroidism, and requires symptomatic treatment. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Excessive Sweating
The feet contain numerous eccrine sweat glands. If physical activity has recently increased, leading to excessive perspiration, this can result in unpleasant odor between the toes and on the soles. It is recommended that patients wash their feet regularly, frequently change socks and shoes, and wear breathable footwear.
2. Bromhidrosis
Patients with bromhidrosis may experience foul-smelling feet or toe web spaces, often accompanied by excessive sweating. It is recommended to use medications such as formalin solution or hexamethylenetetramine solution as directed by a physician.
3. Eczema
Eczema on the feet may produce exudate; when this fluid accumulates in non-breathable shoes, it can ferment and emit an odor. It is recommended to apply topical treatments such as mupirocin ointment or fusidic acid sodium ointment as prescribed by a doctor.
4. Athlete's Foot (Tinea Pedis)
This condition is commonly caused by fungal infection and manifests as peeling, blisters, and itching of the feet, often accompanied by recurrent foot odor. Treatment may include antifungal creams such as clotrimazole cream or terbinafine hydrochloride cream, used as directed by a healthcare provider.
5. Hyperthyroidism
Excessive secretion of thyroid hormones into the bloodstream leads to overactivity in multiple body systems, which may result in increased sweating and foot odor. Patients are advised to take medications such as propylthiouracil tablets or methylthiouracil tablets under medical supervision.
Patients experiencing discomfort should seek timely medical attention at a hospital and receive standardized treatment under the guidance of a physician to promote recovery.
