Why Are My Feet So Sweaty? - Podiatrist Lutherville, MD

Sweaty feet after a workout or when you’re feeling nervous is totally normal. Sweat-soaked socks for no reason — not so much. Nearly 5% of people sweat excessively, and many of them accept it as a part of life.

But we don’t think you should.

Dr. Kelly Geoghan is an expert podiatrist who specializes in a wide range of foot and ankle conditions from plantar fasciitis and bunions to chronically sweaty feet. Here, we take a closer look at some of the causes of sweaty feet and what you can do to treat them.

What’s behind your sweaty feet

Sweat is a good thing. It’s your body’s natural cooling and moisturizing system, but too much of it can cause serious problems. Excessively sweaty feet — or plantar hyperhidrosis — means that your body produces more sweat than is necessary or normal.

When your sweat glands remain “on,” you wind up battling a variety of foot problems from soggy socks to athlete’s foot and nail fungus.

Identifying the exact cause of sweaty feet can be tricky. Often, there’s a hereditary connection. Sometimes, excessive sweating is the result of an underlying condition, but it’s typically a primary condition or idiopathic (has no identifiable cause).

Plantar hyperhidrosis may also come with excessive sweating on the palms. In some cases, genetic syndromes are the culprit.

Whatever’s causing your sweaty feet, Dr. Geoghan has the treatments you need to combat your sweaty feet.

Treating your sweaty feet

Your journey to drier feet begins with a consultation with Dr. Geoghan. She takes the time to understand your health history, symptoms, and treatment goals, and then decides which path is right for you.

Often, she recommends certain injectable treatments to stop your sweat glands from over-producing sweat. She also equips you with a few strategies to avoid sweaty feet and their potential complications. Depending on your needs, these may include the following.

Daily foot washing

If your feet are constantly sweaty, it also means that they’re constantly wet, especially in the areas between your toes. Moist skin is a breeding ground for bacteria and fungal infections, so it’s important to wash your feet every day.

Try soaking your feet in warm water with a few tablespoons of baking soda to thoroughly clean them and remove bacteria.

Drying agents

One of the best things you can do for overly sweaty feet is to use antiperspirants and antifungal powders to keep them dry and possibly stop them from sweating in the first place. Cornstarch is an effective drying agent, but we can also guide you toward some over-the-counter powders that work well, too.

Sweat-friendly footwear

The right socks and shoes are key to combating sweaty feet. Opt for socks that are made from natural fibers like wool and cotton, as they breathe and dry much better than nylon. Invest in breathable shoes made from canvas or leather.

Ready to stop sweating through your socks? Contact our friendly staff at our Lutherville, Maryland, office to get started today.