Bromodosis

Bromodosis is also known as smelly feet. Human feet contain sweat glands more than any other body part. If a person is wearing socks and shoes, it will inhibit the absorption or evaporation of sweat that have been produced due to excessive sweating from the legs. This results in the condition of Bromodosis.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of Bromodosis is excessive sweating of the feet characterised by strong odour from the feet.

Causes

Hyperhidrosis is a condition of the body which can result in excessive sweating of the human skin. This condition is normally found in pregnant women as well as teenagers due to the rapid changes in the hormones. The sweat which does not get absorbed can help the growth of bacteria and fungi around the area where sweat gets collected. This can result in athlete’s foot.
The sweat that remains non-evaporated combines with the bacteria present in the feet. This emits the particular odour.
In certain cases, using a specific type of footwear can also result in Bromodosis. The socks and shoes which have been manufactured from artificial materials causes an increase in sweating; at the same time, it prevents proper evaporation of the sweat produced. So the feet always tend to be wet. This can cause the odour to be emitted from the feet.
If a person does not change his socks daily, it can cause Bromodosis.
Infrequent washing of the feet can also trigger this condition.
Use of certain medications
High level of stress causing excessive sweating
Hormonal changes
More fluid intake

Diagnosis

In many cases, odour that emits from the feet does not mean that the person has Bromodosis.

One must consult a general physician or podiatrist to diagnose and confirm the presence of Bromodosis, if he is unsure about the reason of excessive sweating.

Treatment

The feet must be washed daily with a mild soap and dried properly. Special care must be taken to remove any moisture form in between the toes.
Socks must be changed on a daily basis. If there is excessive sweating, shoes must also be changed. .
Apply medicated powder to the feet, especially between the toes.
Use socks made up to natural fibres that are soft and thick. These will help in enhanced absorption of moisture.
Try to avoid shoes manufactured out of any synthetics. It is preferable to use shoes that are manufactured from mesh, canvas or leather.
If the shoes get wet due to excess sweating, do not wear the same pair for two days continuously.
Cut the nails and keep the nails clean.
Remove the hard and dead skin form the feet as the dead and hard skin which is damp is an ideal environment for the bacteria and fungi. .
Use the dual spray for shoes and feet. .
Clean the feet using spirit used for surgical purposes.
Use antiperspirants that are normally used for underarms.