Common Foot Problems and Their Solutions
Bromhidrosis and Athletes Foot are More Common than Most of Us Think
Jul 3, 2009
Our feet work hard every day to help keep us moving, balanced and strong. But sometimes, they are afflicted with ailments that seem more embarrassing than anything.
Bromhidrosis
Bromhidrosis is the official name given to chronic foot odor. Bromhidrosis is caused by the sweat glands in the feet "going awry". These sweat glands are made up mostly of two main glands: the eccrine and apocrine glands. The eccrine glands are not confined to the feet. They cover the whole body and cool the body by making us sweat. The apocrine glands are more central to the feet and hands and are not involved in the sweat cooling mechanism. They are involved in secreting scents. If the apocrine secretions 'mingle' with the normal bacterial flora on the skin, a stinky scent results.
Symptoms Of Bromhidrosis
Really the main and only symptom of bromhidrosis is a chronic foot odor that generally does not go away. It is not always the result of the feet sweating after exercise or the feet being dirty.
Conventional Treatment
Conventional treatment of bromhidrosis usually consists of frequent washing of the feet with an antibacterial soap and applying antibacterials that have been prescribed by a health care provider.
Athlete's Foot
Athlete's foot, also called Tinea Pedis, is an infection of the foot caused by a fungus called a dermatophyte. These are classified as trichophyton rubrum, T. mentagrophytes, and epidermophyton floccosum. These affect the skin's outer layer. In order for the fungus to survive, it has to have a damp, warm environment. Think such places as swimming pools and locker rooms at the gym. Athlete's foot is not always contagious. It depends on the susceptibility of the individual. People who have diabetes, HIV, cancer or any pre-existing condition that compromises the immune system would be most susceptible.
Symptoms Of Athlete's Foot
The main symptoms are scaling of the skin, itching, redness, rash and in severe cases cracking of the skin and discomfort.
Conventional Treatments
First is to keep the feet clean and dry. Antifungal powders applied to the feet after washing and drying can help. Also antifungal creams can be applied. A health care provider must be consulted to determine which treatment is best for you. Some severe, stubborn cases can be treated with prescription antifungal pills.
Alternative Treatments
One of the most common alternative treatments that is showing promise for these foot problems is Tea Tree Oil. It can be applied topically. You must consult an alternative healer for the proper use of Tea Tree Oil. It is showing promise as a treatment for symptoms but not a cure. There are also some caveats: do not take Tea Tree Oil internally. It is not meant for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Also, some patients have developed an allergy to it.
Care of the Feet and Prevention of Foot Problems
Wash and dry feet thouroughly especially between the toes. Do not share shoes, towels or socks with anyone else. Wear shoes that offer ventilation for the feet and wear cotton socks to keep feet dry. Going barefoot in an appropriate environment also is helpful. Keep the tub and shower clean and disinfect on a regular basis. As with any medical issue, consult a health care provider for any individualized treatment and prevention plan.
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