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Defeat Diabetes Foundation

Defeat Diabetes
Foundation
150 153rd Ave,
Suite 300
Madeira Beach, FL 33708

Dr. Footsie

By Dr. Martin Marks

SWEATY FEET

Excessive sweating of the feet may be the local manifestation of a generalized condition or a phenomenon limited to the lower extremity. The causes of these two varieties differ and need individual consideration. In the foot the sole is chiefly affected as, like the palm of the hand, it is very richly supplied with sweat glands.

Under normal conditions a certain amount of sweat is always being secreted but owing to the very rapid evaporation, none is visible on the surface. When the rate of secretion is increased by either exercise or by a rise in the surrounding temperature, the limits of evaporation are passed and the perspiration becomes obvious.

Excessive sweating is known as HYPERHIDROSIS. The production of sweat is under the direct control of the nervous system, when the control is removed no secretion of any sort occurs. The secretion of sweat forms part of the heat-regulating mechanism of the body.

Emotion states, changes in the endocrine secretions, and by alterations in the blood chemistry affect the secretion of sweat. Thus in many fevers the high temperatures are frequently reduced by profuse sweating. Great emotional stress causes a large increase in sweat production.

ie: IRS Audit or ex-wife asking for money

The question of evaporation must also receive attention. Footwear obviously prevents rapid evaporation in the case of the feet.

In severe cases of the condition the sweat may literally pour off the feet; the skin becomes very swollen, and is especially prone to fungal infections and soft corns.

Occasionally, the sweat undergoes decomposition, due to the presence of fatty substances which are converted into foul-swelling acids by a special type of bacteria. The combination of excessive sweating and offensive sweating is termed BROMIDROSIS, and it may be quite independent of the general health of the individual. Have you ridden in a NYC Subway during rush hour

ANIDROSIS is a condition where there is an absence or deficiency of perspiration, it occurs in association with certain skin diseases. Abnormally dry skin is predisposed to fissuring, especially around the heel.

Minor degrees of HYPERHIDROSIS requires merely extra attention. Socks and stockings must be changed frequently and should be made of a porous material which permits ventilation. The shoes should be carefully chosen and may have special ventilation holes in the soles and uppers. The feet should be bathed daily and thoroughly dried.