Focal hyperhidrosis is a condition that can cause excessive sweating in your feet that is not caused by heat or exercise. The sweating can be so extreme that it causes your socks to quickly become soaked. Although the exact cause of hyperhidrosis is not known, excessive feet sweating is thought to be inherited. Unlike people who have a normal set point and sweat when they are hot, people with this condition sweat all the time. The team of foot specialists at The Nail Restoration Center in McLean, VA, and surrounding areas can treat all podiatry issues including sweaty feet.
Symptoms of Hyperhidrosis
McLean residents with hyperhidrosis of the feet typically experience the following symptoms:
- Sudden sweating from the soles of the feet
- Socks and shoes quickly becoming uncomfortably wet
Treatment for Sweaty Feet
If your podiatrist can find no underlying condition, the following treatments may be used:
- Medications: Your doctor may prescribe a special antiperspirant that contains aluminum chloride or oral medication to block certain nerves and reduce sweating.
- Microwave therapy: A special device that uses microwave energy to destroy the affected sweat glands. This treatment takes two 30-minute sessions performed three months apart.
- Nerve surgery: The surgeon burns or cuts spinal nerves that control sweating in your feet.
Controlling Sweaty Feet at Home
The following tips may help you deal with sweaty feet:
- Use foot powder or antiperspirant
- Apply an astringent to the soles of your feet (products containing tannic acid)
- Wash your feet daily and dry thoroughly
- Wear socks and shoes made from natural materials
- Change your socks regularly
- Go barefoot as often as you can
- Try relaxation techniques to control stress-related sweating
If you have hyperhidrosis, the skin on your feet may have a whitish appearance. You may also be more prone to foot infections. Unpleasant foot odor is also common.
If you are looking for a podiatrist, you can reach the Nail Restoration Center at the McLean/Great Falls office at 703-556-8637, the Ashburn/Leesburg office at 703-723-9267, the Fairfax/Burke office at 703-273-9818, and the Reston/Herndon office at 703-723-2719 to schedule an appointment.