What is the management of pitted keratolysis in the feet?
Pitted keratolysis is a rather prevalent infection of the epidermis of the foot which is characterized by multiple pits or small holes about the bottom of the foot and occasionally about the toes. The infection is actually due to a microorganisms from the Corynebacterium group. This problem is much more frequent where wet footwear or boots are usually used for extended durations, such as work books or army shoes or boots and excessive sweat is permitted to build up. The accumulation of the perspiration will be the environment which the microorganisms might develop in which is frequently associated with smelly feet as well. The tiny craters that develop on account of the too much sweat and bacterial infection appear to be small holes in the feet, generally on the bottom of the foot and also the skin has a tendency to have a white discoloration. The cavities are frequently about 1 to 5 mm across and they are round and also shallow. Usually both feet are affected. These types of holes or pits seen in pitted keratolysis are generated by bacteria that secretes enzymes which will cause the breakdown of the keratin proteins inside the outermost layer of the damaged skin. The breakdown of the skin lets out sulphur chemical substances which cause the foot smell. As these microorganisms thrive in the dark, warm in addition to humid setting in the shoes or boots, this problem continues until that's sorted out. Pitted keratolysis might have very much the same attributes as athlete's foot and excessive sweating, so health care professionals will conduct some checks to make some observations to differentiate which of these is the actual reason for the condition.
The actual approach to the treatment of pitted keratolysis is usually to manage the infection and address the risk factors which brought on this to start with. The infection is better helped by a topical cream antibiotic that one could generally obtain at the drug store or on prescription from your doctor, based on how strong the medicine must be and how bad the pitted keratolysis is. Oral antibiotics are usually not recommended. The antibiotic frequently are beneficial but really don't function too well unless the foot hygiene is sorted out and that hostile hot and moist environment that the bacteria likes is taken care of. The feet really should be cleansed no less than on a daily basis with soap and water and then dried out thoroughly afterwards, especially between the toes. Making use of alcohol baby wipes could also help dry your feet immediately after washing. After doing this, it is better to remain barefoot as long as feasible for a good airing of the foot. Socks which absorb wetness and are changed more than once a day will be really useful in work if boots have to be worn. Antiperspirants that are available from the chemist also may help to keep your feet dry. Once the pitted keratolysis has initially settled down, prevention is significant. Your feet will still must be cleaned thoroughly and antiperspirants may still have to be applied. Perspiration soaking up shoe inserts can be used within the shoes or boots. Powders inside the socks may also be used to help absorb the unnecessary moisture.