Sweaty Feet

What are Sweaty Feet?

Sweaty feet or otherwise known as hyperhydrosis is a condition affecting the sweat glands of the feet causing them to produce excessive sweat or perspiration. Hyperhydrosis condition is a very common condition that usually arises during adolescence or young adulthood.

What are the Causes of Sweaty Feet?

This condition is usually exacerbated by emotional causes such as stress, anxiety, fear, or nervousness. This causes excessive sweating on the palms, soles, axillae (armpit), and forehead. It is thought to be associated with an increase in sympathetic out flow from the stress response. It is important to note that sweating is a normal response to stress but people with hyperhidrosis sweat excessively and usually under conditions of low stress that would not usually cause sweating in most people. There are other conditions that my cause this condition such as an injury or disease to the nervous system, diabetes with neuropathy, and parotid gland injury.

Other causes of focal sweating include Compensatory sweating (intense sweating after sympathectomy), osteoarthropathy (palms), blue rubber bleb nevus syndrome, glomus tumors, and pretibial myxedema.

Sweaty Feet FAQ

There are several treatment options available for hyperhydrosis which include medications, topical antiperspirants, iontophoresis, botox and surgery.

Yes, excessively sweaty feet can increase the risk of fungal infections like athlete’s foot, blisters, and foot odor. The constant moisture creates an ideal environment for bacteria and fungi to thrive, which can lead to further complications if not treated.

If your sweaty feet are persistent, cause discomfort, or lead to problems such as blisters, fungal infections (like athlete’s foot), or foot odor, you should see a podiatrist. They can assess whether an underlying condition, such as hyperhidrosis or a skin infection, is contributing to the excessive sweating and recommend appropriate treatments.

If you suffer from this condition or feel like you have excessively sweaty feet don’t hesitate to make an appointment at any of  Atlantic Foot and Ankle Specialists five locations (Savannah, Hinesville, Statesboro, Claxton, Bluffton) so we can discuss the most effective treatment options for you.