Humid weather often causes unpleasant odors from our feet, a common problem. Moreover, feet are often referred to as the "forgotten body part" because few people take proper care of them.

Taking care of your feet is not difficult. It starts with choosing the right-sized shoes. Foot care includes washing your feet daily, except in cases where the skin is already dry and cracked. After washing, avoid putting on shoes and socks immediately; wait until your feet are completely dry. You can use a towel to pat them dry or use a fan to speed up the drying process. This is important because damp feet are more susceptible to fungal infections like "athlete's foot." Feet have many sweat glands, leading to excessive sweating, and if not cleaned regularly, they can develop a strong odor. At the same time, the skin on the feet has fewer oil glands, making the soles dry and prone to cracking. In such cases, moisturizing cream should be applied.

Common Foot Problems

1. Cracked Heels require special attention during bathing at least once a week. Once the skin softens from the water, gently scrub the thickened areas with a pumice stone. Afterward, apply moisturizing cream and massage the heels and soles until the cream is absorbed. This method helps prevent cracked heels.

2. Excessive Sweating can be managed by using talcum powder. You can choose regular powder or specific foot powder, which is thicker and absorbs moisture better. Applying powder keeps the feet dry and reduces irritation while providing a cooling sensation. Change socks daily and alternate shoes every other day, allowing unused pairs to air out.

3. Ingrown Toenails often occur in individuals who wear tight shoes and cut their nails improperly. Initially, the new nail growth may dig into the surrounding skin, causing inflammation and redness. The correct way to cut toenails is to trim them straight across.

Additionally, many Thai people suffer from foot odor (pitted keratolysis). This condition is not new; it has been recognized for 90 years and is most common among those who enjoy walking barefoot in the rain. When the skin on the soles becomes wet from sweat or standing water, it can soften and become infected with bacteria. Foot odor is prevalent in tropical countries, affecting both children and adults, men and women, but is more common in men due to higher foot perspiration and the tendency to wear socks constantly.

The most common symptom of this condition, found in up to 90% of cases, is a strong foot odor, which can damage one's image. The second most common symptom, occurring in 70%, is the sensation of socks sticking to the soles when removed. Itching is less common, found in only 8%, and the appearance of foot odor is characterized by small pits on the soles. Sometimes these pits can merge into shallow depressions resembling a map, often found on weight-bearing areas of the foot and between the toes. Scraping the skin and staining for bacteria will reveal blue-stained bacteria. This condition can often be diagnosed visually.

Treatment includes using common acne medications like benzoyl peroxide, which can effectively treat foot odor. Additionally, antibiotics and topical antifungal medications can also help. It has been observed that some individuals with excessive sweating in their hands and feet may exhibit anxious behavior, easily startled, and feel unstable. Sometimes, adopting a calmer demeanor can improve sweating in the hands and feet. If you have never had a health check-up, it is advisable to consult a physician for a general health assessment, as certain conditions, such as hyperthyroidism, can also cause excessive sweating.

Thank you for the information from www.thaihealth.or.th