What are Hot Feet?

Feet can have the feeling of being hot or can actually be hot, depending on what is causing the problem.

Symptoms of Hot Feet :

People who have ‘hot feet’, often complain of having burning pains in the feet, red, warm or hot feet or excess sweating of the feet.

Causes of Hot Feet :

There are a few different conditions that cause either a feeling of hot feet or actual hot feet:

Erythromelalgia – this is a reasonably uncommon condition where the blood vessels in the feet open up and create a burning feeling, increasing the temperature of the feet and making them red in appearance.

Peripheral nerve compression – this occurs when the nerves of the feet have undue pressure on them. It can result in intermittant or consistent burning pains in the feet.

Hyperhidrosis – this condition is characterised by excessive sweating of the feet and also athletes foot which causes burning and itching.

Diabetic Neuropathy – this condition causes burning in the feet as well as numbness, decreased feelings, and pins and needles.

Relief and Prevention of Hot Feet :

Relief for the above conditions involve resting, elevating the affected area and not putting undue pressure on the lower extremities – such as crossing the legs, sitting on the feet. You should also make sure that your feet are kept clean and dry as much as possible.
If you’re unsure of how to treat or cope with this condition then it is best to consult your GP.