Having smelly feet is definitely very annoying. It can be embarrassing to realize your feet stink when you take off your shoes. However, there’s nothing to be ashamed of: smelly feet are very common, and it can happen to anyone. However, what causes it? We tell you why you have smelly feet, and how you can both prevent it, and cure it.
What causes it
The medical term for smelly feet is “bromodosis“, and literally anyone can have it. It’s not an actual medical condition, and the underlaying reasons are usually harmless. However, it can become extremely annoying.
Stinking feet is caused by the sweat we secrete. It’s especially bad in this area of our bodies because it’s where we have more sweat glands, that work “harder”. And although sweat in itself does not smell, it’s the bacteria that causes it.
Bacteria is what causes smelly feet
We tend to get smelly feet with particular shoes. This happens when we wear the same shoes day in, day out. We need to let the sweat dry after we’ve used the shoes, if we don’t, that’s when we get these foul smells. Try not to wear the same shoes every day.
This one goes kind of hand in hand with the next cause of stinky feet: poor personal hygiene. If you don’t keep yourself clean, bacteria will build up and your feet will obviously rank. Remember to take a shower often enough.
Hormonal changes
Changes in hormones can also be a cause. This is why it often happens to pregnant women or adolescents. These changes in hormones cause an increase in sweat secretion, meaning it will smell more easily. It’s also possible you’re going through a stressful period, making you sweat double.
Medical conditions
There are some other medical conditions that although not extremely serious, should be looked at if you think this might be your case. There’s a condition called “hyperhidrosis” where you just simply sweat more. Once diagnosed, there are ways of treating it.
Fungal infections
Another health issue that might be causing it is fungal infections, such as athlete’s foot. You should see your doctor if you suspect you might have one. It’s nothing to worry about, though. They will most probably just give you the right medication.
Lifestyle changes
Smelly feet can usually be cured with a couple of lifestyle changes, like maintaining hygiene, or wearing open shoes. It’s also a good idea to use anti-fungal powders or scrubs to prevent non-desired odors. If it gets too bad, choose to visit your dermatologist. They will tell you what you can do best.
Hygiene is key
Try to wash your feet and not wear the same shoes for more than a day. Also remember to change your socks every day, don’t wear the same dirty socks two days in a row, and try to stay away from nylon. Rather go for cotton or wool. However, open shoes can go a long way.
Special deodorants
Nowadays there are tons of anti-smell deodorants that work wonders. See if it works for you. Also, try to use detachable medical insoles. This can also work great, as they have the same effect as deodorant.
The type of shoes you wear
Give the type of shoes you wear the right importance: they should be made from leather or canvas. Wear open shoes when possible, and even better if you go for shoeless. For more extreme cases of stinky feet, you should go see a doctor.
Seek professional help
There are numerous options that might work for you, but you should always make sure you’re helped by a professional. From certain medications to botox injections, find out what works best for you.
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