Stinky feet can be very embarrassing, but not exceptionally surprising when you consider the fact that your feet have more sweat glands than any other area of your body. A bacteria known as isovaleric acid causes the unpleasant smell in your feet. Stinky feet can be more of a nasty nuisance than a serious medical malady. Many factors can contribute to stinky feet
Physical Activity
When your body temperature rises, your autonomic nervous system prompts the eccrine glands (small sweat glands that produce only a fluid) to emit fluid (perspiration) onto the surface of your skin. Your feet often begin to sweat during exercise, particularly during vigorous workouts. Unlike sweaty palms that are allowed to breathe and evaporate, sweaty feet are often locked inside of your shoes for hours at time. Foot odor may intensify when weather is hot.
Emotional Triggers
You're more likely to sweat when anxious, nervous or stressed. The soles of your feet are a likely spot for emotionally triggered perspiration. It can also develop on your palms, in your armpits and on your face.
Genetics
There may be a very logical reason some people have worse smelling shoes and socks than others. According to Dr. Foot.com UK, some people are predisposed to excessive sweating, particularly on the bottom of the feet and palms.
Lifestyle Factors
You may notice that your feet sometimes smell worse than usual. Mood, hormones and diet can have a bearing on how much your feet sweat and the way they smell. For example, spicy food can lead to excessive sweating. Certain drugs (Naproxen, Acyclovir) and health conditions (hyperthyroidism, menopausal hot flashes, heat exhaustion, gallstones) can also play a role in foot odor.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot generally causes painless and odorless scaling and peeling in the area between the toes. In serious cases of this common foot condition, there may be relentless itching and a foul smell.
Member Comments