The medical term for foot odor is bromodosis. The main cause for this common condition is excessive perspiration. Sweaty feet create the perfect environment for odor-causing bacteria to develop. Additional causes for foot odor may include stress, medication, hormonal changes, alcohol and drug use, fungal infections or poor hygiene.
Foot odor can be embarrassing and can affect anyone; however, there are simple and inexpensive remedies that can be used at home to help eliminate the smell. Here are a few:
- Wash your feet twice a day with antibacterial soap
- After a bath, use a cotton swab to dab between the toes with rubbing alcohol
- Soak your feet in salt water or baking soda
- Bathe your feet in vinegar
- Clean and scrub feet with a pumice stone
- Sprinkle corn starch into your socks
- Wear fresh socks and change them regularly (moisture absorbing socks are best)
- Change your shoes regularly to allow them to dry and air properly. Podiatrist recommend that you do not wear the same shoes for two consecutive days
If an odor persists after trying these remedies, it is recommended that you see a podiatrist. There are several courses of treatment your doctor may recommend. Depending on the severity of your case, prescription–strength products, the use of electrical devices to eliminate perspiration or a surgical procedure that helps to control sweating are a few of the options your podiatrist may explore.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.