Podobromidrosis is a medical condition that causes persistent and unpleasant foot odor. The word can be broken down phonetically as /ˌpɒdəʊˌbrəʊmɪˈdrəʊsɪs/. The prefix "pod-" refers to the foot, "brom-" means odor, and "hidrosis" means sweating. The "o" in "pod" is pronounced long, and the stress is on the second syllable. The "i" in "brom" is a short vowel sound, and the "e" in "hidrosis" is a schwa sound. Despite its complex spelling, podobromidrosis is a fairly common condition that can be treated with proper foot hygiene and medical intervention.
Podobromidrosis is a medical term that refers to the condition of having foul-smelling sweat in the feet. It is a combination of the Greek words "podo" meaning "foot," "bromos" meaning "smell," and "hidrosis" meaning "sweating."
Podobromidrosis is characterized by an unpleasant odor that emanates from the feet due to the presence of certain chemicals in sweat. These chemicals are produced by bacteria that thrive in warm and moist environments, such as inside shoes or socks. The condition is often associated with excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis) of the feet, which creates an ideal breeding ground for bacteria.
The odor associated with podobromidrosis can be quite pungent and may be compared to the smell of rotten eggs, ammonia, or cheese. It can cause embarrassment and discomfort for individuals affected by the condition, leading to decreased self-confidence and social interactions.
Treatment for podobromidrosis typically involves practicing good foot hygiene, such as washing the feet regularly with antibacterial soap and thoroughly drying them afterwards. The use of antiperspirant powders or sprays specifically designed for feet can help reduce sweating. Additionally, wearing clean and breathable footwear, alternating shoes each day, and using moisture-wicking socks can also assist in preventing or managing podobromidrosis.
In some cases, where home remedies are not effective, a healthcare professional may prescribe topical or oral medications to control sweating or treat any underlying bacterial or fungal infections contributing to the foul odor.
Strong smelling perspiration of the feet.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "podobromidrosis" is derived from Greek roots. "Podo" comes from the Greek word "pous", which means "foot". "Bromos" translates to "bad odor" in Greek. Lastly, "idrosis" is derived from "hidros", which means "sweat" in Greek. Therefore, "podobromidrosis" refers to the medical condition of having foul-smelling sweat from the feet.