Excessive Sweating

Excessive sweating causes a multitude of problems including embarrassment, social isolation and even depression. Excess sweating is also medically known as hyperhidrosis. Sweating is a common social problem in people of all ages. In most cases, sweating affects the face, palms, and feet. Over time, excess sweating can cause a lot of difficulties interacting with people and creates embarrassment even when shaking hands. One may not even be able to hold a piece of paper without getting it wet. Some people have excess sweating underneath the armpits, which can lead to a foul odor.

Once excess sweating was considered to be rare but this was primarily because people were shy to admit they had this discomforting disorder. It is estimated that close to 4%-5% of Americans have some degree of sweating which is bothersome. Both men and women are similarly affected and the problem is most conspicuous in the 2 or3 decade of life. In general, there are two types of sweating:

In primary hyperhidrosis, the sweating is localized either to the palms, armpits or the soles. It is strongly associated with emotions or stress which can trigger the episodes. Most people with primary sweating find that sweaty palms are the most troublesome. In primary sweating the face is the least affected.

Secondary sweating is generally due to an underlying medical disorder. Some common medical disorders that can precipitate sweating include hyperthyroidism, infection, cancer, nerve disorders, spinal cord injury or low blood sugar.

For excessive sweating underarm problems one may choose either an over the counter anti perspirant or a deodorant. One should understand that anti-perspirants work by reducing sweat. These products tend to be slightly more expensive. Deodorants on the other hand just mask the odor but do not decrease sweating. Most deodorants contain alcohol and fragrances. For excessive sweating underarm problem the antiperspirant should be applied at night.

Excessive sweating head may be related to a fever or an overactive thyroid gland. In most cases, excessive sweating head is the most difficult to treat. Skincare experts recommend frequent baths, applying alcohol based deodorants and frequent changes of garments.

One can stop excessive sweating by life style changes such as frequent bathing and drying thoroughly. Shoes should be made from natural materials like leather and proper socks should be worn. Cotton and wool sock are ideal as they do absorb moisture better than nylon. Do not wear the same pair of shoes daily. Apply an anti-perspirant on the feet at night time and try to use perfume free products.

For those individuals who want to permanently stop excessive sweating, there is surgery. Today, surgery for sweating of palms and arm pits works well. It is done by using a small camera and destroying nerves that cause sweating in the hand. Thoracic sympathectomy does work very well but should be a last choice.
If you continue to have sweating, discuss the topic with your physician and stop living a life of isolation and embarrassment. Most excessive sweating causes can be treated relatively easily.