Why do feet smell bad? 5 reasons and ways to solve the problem
Is it harmless? Find out right now.
You take off your shoes and socks after a long day, wanting to give your tired feet a break. Until you smell a foul odor that makes you wonder, “Why do my feet smell so bad?” No one wants to talk about foot odor, but honestly, you shouldn't be embarrassed about it. Aside from your armpits, your feet are more at risk for strong odor than most other parts of your body.
That's because they're usually covered by socks and shoes, which can trap moisture and encourage the growth of bacteria or fungus, explains dermatologist Emily Wood. Moisture (aka sweat) is released by sweat glands, and we have about 250,000 of them on each foot. However, some things can make your feet especially wet. MigNews lists some of the most common culprits and what you can do to get the smell under control quickly.
Why Feet Smell Bad: Poor Hygiene
All that sweat your feet produce? According to Harvard Health Publishing, it mixes with bacteria on your skin, socks, and shoes, leading to foot odor. While most people's feet smell a little, you may be more prone to foot odor if you're lax about your hygiene, explains Dr. Wood. This can happen if you don't:
- Bathe often enough;
- Wash your feet thoroughly;
- Change or wash your socks regularly;
- Clean shoes that have accumulated a lot of sweat.
How to treat it. Keeping your feet clean and dry can be very beneficial. “I recommend washing your feet with soap and water every day, or more often if you sweat a lot,” says Dr. Wood. Antibacterial soap will help kill the germs that cause odor. If you’re dealing with a strong odor, you can also soak your feet in an Epsom salt bath (add 1/2 cup of salt) for 10 to 20 minutes to help get rid of more serious bacteria.
Cause of Odorous Feet: Fungal Infections
Tinea pedis (the medical term for “athlete’s foot”) is a common fungal infection that can affect the skin on the feet, especially the skin between the toes. It is characterized by moist, scaly skin that is yellow or greenish in color, painful cracks, and a foul odor. Although anyone can get the fungus, the infection is more common in people over 60 or those with medical conditions such as diabetes and obesity.
- How to treat it.If you think you have symptoms of athlete's foot, see your doctor. They can help you determine which treatment options are best for you. You may be able to combat the infection with over-the-counter antifungal creams, ointments, gels, sprays, or powders.
Why feet smell bad: Bacterial infections
Epidermophytosis of the feet is a fungal skin infection that usually starts between the toes, Source: pexels.com
Smelly feet, along with itching, tiny pits, or white spots, are signs of a bacterial foot infection called actinic keratolysis. This infection typically affects people whose feet sweat a lot or who are exposed to a lot of moisture from wearing tight shoes or boots. These people include military personnel, athletes, sailors, farm workers, or people with hyperhidrosis.
- How to treat it.Treatment for actinic keratolysis begins with getting rid of the infection, usually with antibiotic creams combined with an antiseptic such as benzoyl peroxide. Home remedies such as washing your feet thoroughly, wearing breathable socks and shoes, and using antiperspirant on your feet can also help prevent symptoms from recurring.
Cause of foot odor: eczema
Eczema, a common skin condition that causes inflamed, discolored patches of skin, can also affect the feet. When eczema reaches the feet, it can sometimes cause an unpleasant odor, says Dr. Wood.
Dermatologists (aka doctors who specialize in skin, hair, and nail conditions) call this condition dyshidrotic eczema, and it can also cause small blisters on the feet and itching.
Symptoms can be exacerbated by stress, exposure to allergens (like metals), seasonal allergies, and living in hot or humid climates.
- How to treat it. Washing your feet with a mild cleanser and applying a thick moisturizing ointment can help manage symptoms of foot eczema. It is also helpful to use warm water when bathing, avoid contact with detergents, wear socks or stockings made of breathable fabrics such as cotton or silk, and use dry socks and shoes. If home remedies are not enough, a dermatologist may prescribe a steroid cream or recommend medical treatments.
Why Your Feet Smell: Hyperhidrosis
If your feet or other parts of your body (like your palms, armpits, or face) sweat a lot, even when you're not hot or exercising, you may have hyperhidrosis. This is a medical condition that causes you to sweat excessively.
It can be caused by changes in nerve signals in your sweat glands or by a condition like diabetes, hot flashes related to menopause, or thyroid problems.
- How to treat it. Washing your feet regularly with antibacterial soap and wearing moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry are good first steps. But with hyperhidrosis, you'll need to take extra steps to combat odor and sweating. If your sweating is difficult to control, your doctor may recommend a prescription antiperspirant.
Some people recommend wearing compression socks. But what are they for? Find out the answer here.
