Wet feet lose heat 25 times faster than dry feet. When your feet are cold and wet, not only do you run the risk of developing frostbite, but you could also be prone to trench foot and athlete's foot, experts say.

To compensate for heat loss, the body shuts down peripheral circulation. Less blood circulating to the feet means less oxygen and nutrients. In a situation like this, skin tissue begins to die and may in turn lead to trench foot.

Because wet feet get cold more quickly, they are also at an increased risk of developing frostbite. Athlete's foot, a fungal infection, is also more likely to thrive in moist, damp places such as feet when sweat is present.

Fortunately, these prevention strategies can stave off all three of these conditions :

• Check your feet regularly to see if they are wet.
• If your feet are wet, dry them and put on a new pair of dry socks and dry shoes.
• Change your socks at least once a day.
• Do not sleep with wet socks on.
• Look for socks that are made of an acrylic fibre, not cotton. Acrylic fibre keeps moisture away from the feet.
• Choose shoes that are waterproof and insulated, and be sure to check insulated shoes for leaks before use.
• Make sure socks and shoes are not too tight, as this can impede circulation.

Finally, cover your feet with antiperspirant. The active ingredient, aluminium hydroxide, keeps your feet from sweating.

For more information, visit :

HealthyOntario.com

November 2003

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