Toe jam is a nonmedical term referring to the debris that can accumulate between your toes.
Toe jam is rarely serious.
However, if its painful or has an odor, it can be a sign of abacterial or fungalinfection.
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The good news is simple lifestyle changes may help prevent toe jam buildup in the future.
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What Are the Symptoms of Toe Jam?
Sometimes, people notice toe jam when they remove their socks.
If you have toe jam, you may notice the following symptoms:
What Causes Toe Jam?
Accumulating lint, dirt, sweat, anddead skin cellscause toe jam.
Likewise, diabetes can lead to foot sores and infections, increasing the likelihood of developing toe jam.
Toe jam is common and can result from sweat and other factors.
About 3% of the population suffers from hyperhidrosis, according to the International Hyperhidrosis Society.
Make cleaning between your toes part of your shower routine to address toe jam and prevent it from recurring.
After you shower, be sure to dry completely, especially between all your toes.
Debris is less likely to accumulate in clean, dry spaces.
Another suggestion is to rotate shoes with other pairs so they can completely air out between wearings.
Medicated talc or antifungal medications can also treat toe jam.
A pumice stone for corns and calluses can keep them smooth and limit flakiness.
Being barefoot at home can help relieve toe jam.
Be sure that whenever you are barefoot, you wash your feet afterward.
However, certain situations may require medical attention.
The main thing to watch out for with toe jam is infection.
Infections of the feet may be bacterial or fungal.
Podiatristsare medical doctors who specialize in treating conditions of the feet.
Toe jam consists of lint, dead skin, dirt, and other debris.
It is usually harmless and preventable with good personal hygiene.
University of Pittsburgh Medical Center.What is toe jam?.
Advancing Foot and Ankle Medicine and Surgery.Sweaty feet.
American Podiatric Medical Association.Athletes foot.
National Library of Medicine.Putting your best foot forward: steps for happy, healthy feet.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Cellulitis.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms of ringworm and fungal nail infections.
