Topic: Wet Feet
Definition
Wet feet or hyperhidrosis as it is medically known is a condition that can be both embarrassing and annoying for the person involved. By definition, it is an abnormal glandular condition resulting in an excessive accumulation of moisture or perspiration on the skin. These patients will often come into the office complaining of excessive foot odors, skin discolorations, rashes, and concern over frequently having wet or moist socks. Frequent areas of involvement seem to include the toes, metatarsal fat pads, and arches. The skin itself will often take on a whitened or blanched type of appearance and will be moist to the touch.
Cause
Some people will perspire more then others. Usually, the glandular secretions will evaporate under normal circ*mstances and not become any sort of problem. In certain cases however, greater than normal levels of perspiration occur and the skin's evaporation or drying mechanism is incapable of handling the moisture load. The result is a wet skin condition that holds surface bacteria and with time, will cause offensive odors.
Treatment
The treatment plan for a wet skin condition is obvious. Topical medications are prescribed by a foot specialist or dermatologist to reduce the glandular secretions and dry the skin. The patient is directed to change his or her shoes and socks frequently to allow for adequate aeration. Occasionally, some attention might be directed at dietary intake in order to reduce the ingestion of certain spicy foods. Proper hygiene involving bathing and thoroughly drying the feet is an essential part of the long-term therapy. This condition is one that can be readily managed and with a cooperative patient, most likely rectified.
FAQs
Trench foot, or immersion foot syndrome, is a condition that can occur when your feet are cold and wet for a long period of time. It often happens when you have to wear wet socks and shoes or boots for days at a time. Prolonged exposure to damp, cold and sometimes unsanitary conditions can lead to the disease.
How do you fix wet feet? ›
How I treat wet feet
- Wear non-waterproof shoes, which drain and dry out quickly;
- Wear thin, non-cushioned merino wool socks, which don't absorb as much water as thicker socks;
- Take off my shoes and socks to let my feet air dry during any mid-day rest stop that will be longer than 20 minutes;
Prescribe medicine. Perform surgery on your foot and ankle. Prescribe medical devices like orthotics (shoe inserts), braces and casts. Suggest mobility aid devices like canes and walkers.
What does "wet feet" mean? ›
Definition. Wet feet or hyperhidrosis as it is medically known is a condition that can be both embarrassing and annoying for the person involved. By definition, it is an abnormal glandular condition resulting in an excessive accumulation of moisture or perspiration on the skin.
Can you get sick from wet feet? ›
This common, parental advice, might have you wonder if you can you get sick from wet feet. Although colds are caused by viruses, not cold, wet feet, my mother was right to make me come inside to dry off. Today, as a Canadian Certified Pedorthist, I advise my patients to do the same.
Can wet feet cause nerve damage? ›
Trench foot, also known as immersion foot syndrome, is a serious condition resulting from prolonged exposure of the feet to moisture. It damages the circulation and nerve function in the feet.
What is it called when your feet are always wet? ›
Excessive sweating of the feet is called hyperhidrosis.
How do you put moisture back in your feet? ›
5 Tips to Fight Dry, Cracked Feet
- Exfoliate Your Feet. ...
- Moisturize Daily. ...
- Soak in Socks Overnight. ...
- Do Not Take Steamy Showers. ...
- Wear Comfortable, Properly Fitting Shoes. ...
- Take Care of Dryness and Cracking.
Place your shoes next to a heat source to encourage complete drying. Dry your feet thoroughly after bathing and/or swimming, especially between your toes. Wear Cool-Max or wool toe socks to keep moisture away from the skin of your feet. Put baby powder in your shoes.
What is the most common problem treated by a podiatrist? ›
Common problems that podiatrists treat include bunions, heel pain, ingrown toenails, and athlete's foot. Treatment methods used by podiatrists can vary depending on the specific condition but often include things like orthotic devices, braces, or surgery.
A podiatrist goes to Podiatric Medical School and earns the DPM degree. Like other medical schools, podiatric medical schools require the MCAT test and are competitive. However, pod schools get fewer applicants than general med schools, and are therefore easier to get into.
Will a podiatrist massage my feet? ›
Massage therapy can be a useful tool as part of your podiatry treatment. It is often used to release tight and tense muscles that may be contributing to your injury, such as heel pain, plantar fasciitis and achilles tendinopathy.
What is the wet foot policy? ›
The policy commonly known as “wet-foot/dry-foot” generally refers to an understanding under which Cuban migrants traveling to the United States who are intercepted at sea (“wet foot”) are returned to Cuba or resettled in a third country, while those who make it to U.S. soil (“dry foot”) are able to request parole and, ...
How to treat wet feet? ›
Remove Wet Socks and Shoes: The first step is to remove wet socks and shoes immediately. This allows the feet to start drying and rewarming. Gently Clean and Dry: Thoroughly clean and gently dry the feet. Avoid excessive scrubbing or friction, as the skin may be fragile.
What happens if your feet are wet for too long? ›
When water seeps through your footwear, your skin absorbs the water causing your feet to become waterlogged, wrinkly and even smell. YUCK! The longer your feet are wet, the greater the damage to your skin, including tears and the formation of blisters and deep painful cracks.
What can happen if your feet are always wet? ›
Some people sweat so much that their feet may slip around inside their shoes. The feet may also have a whitish, wet appearance; sometimes, foot infections are present as well. (Constant wetness breaks down the skin, allowing infection to set in.) Foot odor is common.
What happens if you keep your feet wet? ›
Blisters, Rashes and Sores
Persistent friction creates painful sores and blisters. This usually happens if your shoes don't fit properly but it can also arise if your feet are wet. Dampness causes friction, and the constant rub can lead to sores and infection if left untreated.
Can wet feet cause fungus? ›
The fungus thrives in warm, moist areas. Your risk for getting athlete's foot increases if you: Wear closed shoes, especially if they are plastic-lined. Keep your feet wet for long periods.
What are the four stages of trench foot? ›
Trench foot is often categorized into one of four stages, including:
- Stage 1—Injury Phase.
- Stage 2—Pre-hyperaemic Phase.
- Stage 3—Hyperaemic Phase.
- Stage 4— Post-Hyperaemic Phase.
