Sweating on the soles of your feet usually starts in childhood, and mostly, it occurs for no apparent reason. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) assures us that it is rarely an indication of underlying diseases; and as such, it becomes more of an embarrassment than an ailment.
But people who have endured the condition over the years attest that sweaty feet can be quite uncomfortable---just imagine having your feet all squishy in your shoes as you deliver that important speech, or declare your undying commitment to the one you love.
If not acted upon, sweaty feet can lead to the more serious (and more embarrassing) development of body odor and fungal infections. If you experience a sudden onset of sweating, or if sweating happens even when you sleep, then it may be best to undergo a physical exam or consult your doctor about it.
Genetics
You can't choose the family you're born into, and apparently, even the sweaty feet that come with it. The exact cause of sweaty feet has yet to be determined, but doctors at the say that the condition---unfair as it may seem---is largely inherited, or is mainly due to your genetics.
Stress
Worried about a looming deadline? Jumping from one meeting to another? Furious with your penny-pinching partner? Anxiety, stress and high emotions can cause the thousands of sweat glands on your feet to go into hyper mode, as sweating is your body's way of cooling itself. Want to keep the sweating to a minimum? Keep your cool.
Underlying Causes
In most cases, sweating should not be a cause for concern, but if it begins suddenly, then it may be a symptom of an underlying disease. Mayo Clinic doctors say that sudden sweating in the large areas of your body---feet included---may be a sign of an overactive thyroid, leukemia, lymphoma, heart attack or a possible infectious disease. Unusual sweating may also be brought about by some of the medicines you are taking. For women, menopause can also trigger .
What to Do
Treatments are available if sweaty feet are already becoming a nuisance to your daily activities, or if you feel extremely embarrassed about it. The AAFP says that you can ask your doctor about aluminum chloride solutions; tap-water ionthophoresis, a treatment where mild electrical current go through your skin; injections like Botox; or, as a last resort, surgery. All of these treatments should be consulted with a qualified health practitioner as they pose risks of side effects.
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