Foot odor, or smelly feet, can be caused by factors like hormonal changes, poor hygiene, certain medications, specific foods, or health conditions such as hyperhidrosis or obesity.
The medical term for stinky feet is plantar bromhidrosis. It occurs when sweat produced by the sweat glands is broken down by bacteria or fungi, leading to a strong, unpleasant smell.
If foot odor continues despite proper hygiene or starts interfering with daily life, it is recommended to consult a dermatologist or primary care doctor. Treatment may involve antifungal creams or pills, or in more severe cases, surgery to remove sweat glands.
Main causes of smelly feet
Smelly feet are often due to excess sweating and the presence of bacteria or fungi. The most common causes include:
1. Athlete's foot
Athlete's foot, or tinea pedis, is a fungal infection that affects the feet. It can cause symptoms such as foot odor, itching, redness, and peeling skin.
What to do: Treatment includes antifungal creams like terbinafine, clotrimazole, or miconazole. In some cases, oral antifungal medications such as terbinafine or itraconazole may be needed.
2. Obesity
Obesity can lead to stinky feet due to increased sweating and the buildup of dirt in certain areas of the body, which can raise the risk of fungal infections.
What to do: Treatment involves healthy weight loss through regular exercise and a balanced diet. Doctors may also prescribe medications like orlistat to help reduce fat absorption and manage appetite.
Also recommended: Weight Loss Diet: Best Foods to Eat, Avoid & Meal Plan tuasaude.com/en/weight-loss-diet3. Poor hygiene
Not washing feet daily, reusing socks, or failing to dry feet properly after bathing can lead to bacterial and fungal growth, resulting in smelly feet.
What to do: Wash feet daily with soap and water, dry thoroughly especially between the toes, change socks every day, file thick skin weekly after bathing, and keep toenails clean and trimmed.
4. Hyperhidrosis
Hyperhidrosis is a condition where the nerves that control sweat glands become overactive, causing excessive foot sweating and increasing the chance of foot odor.
What to do: Treatment options may include absorbent insoles, medicated pads, prescription medications like oxybutynin to reduce nerve activity, or surgical removal of sweat glands.
5. Medications
Some medications, including antidepressants, certain anti-inflammatories, leuprolide acetate, penicillin, or dupilumab, can increase sweat production or alter its composition, contributing to foot odor.
What to do: Talk to the prescribing doctor about adjusting the dosage or switching to a different medication if necessary.
6. Foods
Foods like garlic, onions, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, and Brussels sprouts contain sulfur compounds that are metabolized and released through the skin, including the feet. Spicy foods and alcohol may also increase sweating, which can make foot odor worse.
What to do: Practicing good foot hygiene and reducing the intake of these foods and drinks can help control foot odor.
7. Hormonal changes
Hormonal shifts during adolescence, pregnancy, or menopause can cause an increase in sweating, leading to smelly feet.
What to do: In menopause, hormone replacement therapy or herbal supplements like soy isoflavones may help reduce sweating and hot flashes. During adolescence or pregnancy, foot odor can be managed by rotating shoes, avoiding rubber footwear, and keeping feet clean and dry.
How to get rid of foot odor
Some tips to help prevent and get rid of stinky feet include:
- Wash feet daily with soap and water, scrubbing between the toes
- Dry feet thoroughly after bathing, especially between the toes
- Use foot powder, antiperspirant creams, or sprays to reduce moisture and control bacteria and fungi
- Avoid closed shoes when possible, choosing sandals or flip-flops to let the feet breathe
- Wear cotton socks, which allow better airflow compared to synthetic fabrics
- Go barefoot at home when possible to help air out the feet
- Change socks every day to avoid moisture buildup
In addition, some home remedies like a baking soda or apple cider vinegar soak can help eliminate foot odor thanks to their antibacterial and antifungal properties.