Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating)
Hyperhidrosis of the feet, or excessive sweating, is a common condition that can cause foul foot odors, discomfort, and a higher risk for foot infections. Our podiatrists at Foot & Ankle Centers of Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney can help you stop the sweat and start living!
Hyperhidrosis is caused by overactive sweat glands that produce more sweat than is necessary for the body’s cooling system. This can lead to wet and smelly feet and make wearing shoes difficult. It can also cause skin irritation and infections, as well as anxiety and embarrassment. Due to the nature of hyperhidrosis, patients should begin applying antifungal powders right away to reduce the risk of athlete's foot.
Patients with hyperhidrosis already suffer from the embarrassing issue of excessively sweaty feet, but due to this sweaty, moist environment, the feet are prone to other problematic conditions. Symptoms of untreated hyperhidrosis include:
- An unpleasant odor coming from the feet
- Skin discoloration of the feet
- Chafing of the skin on the feet
- Itching and burning sensation from the feet
- Formation of blisters and cracks on the feet
- Excessive peeling of the skin on the feet
- A higher risk for infections, such as athlete's foot
Choosing to not seek treatment for hyperhidrosis will result in skin infections that can be both bacterial and fungal. Once the foot is infected, professional treatment by one of our podiatrists will be required to ensure that the infection is cured and that the root cause of the excessive sweating is treated. This will ensure that the foot can heal properly and decrease the risk of future infections.
What Are The Treatments For Hyperhidrosis?
For those who suffer from hyperhidrosis, there are a variety of treatments that our podiatrists can recommend. Antiperspirants are the most common treatment to help reduce the amount of sweat produced by the sweat glands. These products are available over-the-counter, but stronger versions are available by prescription. Our podiatrists can also prescribe medication like glycopyrrolate to reduce the amount of sweat your feet produce. In addition, you can switch out your regular socks for specialized socks that absorb sweat and reduce friction.
At our office locations in Frisco, Little Elm, & McKinney, our podiatrists can provide in-person treatments, such as Botox injections or laser therapy. These methods will reduce sweating and the laser therapy option will kill off bacteria known to cause fungal infections. With the proper treatment, you can manage your excessive sweating and get back to living your life.