Bromhidrosis, also known as osmidrosis is the term used to describe body odour. In Podiatry, this term is specifically used to describe smelly feet or unpleasant foot odour which emanates from the skin.
Smelly feet can occur as a result of atypical sweat regulation via hormones. Although having smelly feet can be an embarrassing condition, it is quite common and is relatively easy to treat. It typically affects a number of individuals including post-pubertal individuals (teenagers) and pregnant women.
Feet have a tendency to sweat – particularly as they have more sweat glands than any other part of your body. The sweat alone is not what causes the smell, rather, it is the bacteria that breed and flourish in the sweaty environment. Although it is normal to have bacteria on your skin, the extra bacteria can cause problems by staying on your skin and in your shoes causing the bad odour. The upside of this, however, is that smelly feet can easily be managed – should you not also have another affiliated foot or skin condition (see our other blogs on Athlete’s Foot)!
Here are 10 handy tips that you can do to thwart the issue of smelly feet!
- Change your socks at least once per day.
- Try to use socks made of natural fibres rather than synthetic ones.
- Alternate your shoes – try to swap between at least two pairs of shoes on a day-to-day basis, to give your shoes time to dry out properly.
- Let your shoes sunbathe – leave your shoes in the sun every now- and then to assist with drying out the moisture from the shoes.
- Clean and maintain your toenails.
- Perform daily foot checks and cleans – particularly if you have been wearing enclosed shoes for a long period of time. It is important that you are able to wash your feet and in-between your toes with mild soap.
- Make sure after every bath, shower or foot soak that you carefully and thoroughly dry between your toes.
- Use tea-tree spray, antifungal spray or anti-fungal powder inside your shoes to eliminate bacteria, address bad odour and prevent Athlete’s foot.
- Use rubbing alcohol, tea-tree oil or Friar’s balsam to prevent excessive sweating. And assist with drying between your toes.
- You can also use specialised insoles with a deodorant component which are an active odour neutraliser that can be purchased from the chemist.
If you experience smelly or sweaty feet, regular attention and care can potentially address the issues you face with this problem. The handy tips above are usually successful in addressing bromhidrosis. However, in severe cases, you may be referred to a doctor if necessary. Come in and see one of our Podiatrists who are all happy to help you implement a treatment plan and provide your feet with some TLC!
