The southwest monsoon arrived early in Mumbai on Monday, marking its earliest onset in more than 70 years, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD). The city witnessed heavy rainfall, widespread waterlogging, and disruptions in transport and flight services.
However, monsoon comes with its share of problems such as skin infections especially for daily commuters who have to wade through waterlogged streets and travel to work. Therefore it is necessary to take extra care of your feet in monsoon to stay safe from the challenges posed by humidly and rain.
Common feet problems in monsoon
These include moisture accumulation between toes, bacterial growth, fungal infection such as athlete’s foot, foot odour and softening of skin. Athlete’s foot, medically known as tinea pedis, is a common fungal infection of the feet, often affecting the skin between the toes. It’s characterised by itching, burning, and cracked, scaly skin. The infection typically begins between the toes but can spread to other parts of the foot.
Foot odour is primarily caused by sweat mixing with bacteria on the skin’s surface. This combination produces an unpleasant smell that can worsen in humid conditions. Fungal infections like athlete’s foot thrive in warm, moist environments, enhancing foot odour.
Monsoon footcare Tips
Keep Feet Clean and Dry
Regularly washing and drying the feet, especially between the toes, can help prevent infections. To keep feet clean and dry during the monsoon, it is necessary to prioritise hygiene and choose the right kind of footwear.
Dermatologists recommend regularly washing and drying your feet in monsoon, especially between toes, and use antifungal powders or creams to combat moisture. Wearing waterproof shoes and moisture-wicking socks are a good idea; however, these should be changed frequently if they get wet. Foot soaks and moisturisers keep feet healthy and prevent infections.
Use Antifungal Products
Antifungal products are important for foot care during monsoon because the high humidity and damp conditions created by the rainy season provide an ideal environment for fungal infections to thrive. These conditions can lead to increased sweating and moisture on the feet, which creates a breeding ground for fungi. Applying antifungal powders or sprays can help prevent fungal infections. If a fungal infection does develop, antifungal products can help treat it and prevent it from spreading.
Wear Breathable Footwear
Choosing breathable footwear can help keep the feet dry and reduce the risk of infections and prevent foot odour. Breathable materials like mesh, canvas, and specially treated fabrics allow moisture to escape, preventing sweat from accumulating within the shoe. This minimizes the risk of fungal and bacterial infections, common during monsoon’s wet and humid conditions. Breathable footwear helps keep feet dry and comfortable, even when wet or damp. This is important for preventing discomfort and blisters, especially when wearing shoes for longer periods.
Trim Toenails regularly
Trimming toenails during monsoon is crucial to prevent fungal and bacterial infections that thrive in warm, moist conditions. Long nails can trap dirt and moisture, making them breeding grounds for these infections. Keeping toenails trimmed regularly, especially straight across, helps prevent ingrown nails and reduces the risk of infection. Fungi, like dermatophytes and yeast, thrive in moist environments, making the monsoon season ideal for them to multiply. Trimmed nails reduce the surface area where fungi can attach and grow. Regular trimming, along with foot washing and drying, is essential for maintaining good foot hygiene during the monsoon season.
