What should you know about extra sweaty feet?

Sweating helps cool the body, but the soles may stay damp even when you are not hot or exercising. Moisture can soften the skin and make rubbing from shoes more irritating. Persistent sweating may occur on its own or alongside sweating elsewhere, described as excessive sweating. It can also make fungal problems easier to maintain; itching, peeling or cracking between the toes can fit athlete's foot, which needs different care.

Wash and dry carefully between the toes, change socks when they become damp, and choose breathable footwear. Rotate shoes so each pair can dry fully. A clinician may recommend an antiperspirant made for the feet; prescription formulations can be stronger and should be used exactly as directed. Iontophoresis is another option that uses a mild electrical current through water to reduce sweating over a course of sessions. Do not apply irritating products to broken or inflamed skin without advice.

Arrange an assessment if sweating is new, severe, disrupting sleep or accompanied by unexplained weight change, fever, dizziness or palpitations. Seek prompt help for spreading redness, warmth, swelling, pus, deep cracks or significant pain. A clinician can check for infection, medication effects and other conditions before choosing treatment.

Ask whether the pattern fits plantar hyperhidrosis, whether your skin shows athlete's foot, and which antiperspirant strength is suitable. You can also ask how to use iontophoresis, how to protect cracked skin, and when improvement should be reviewed.