7 Things You Need to Know About Excessive Sweating
Most individuals experience underarm stains due to sweating at some point. However, if this occurs frequently or starts to impede various aspects of your life, it might be advisable to consult with your doctor.
If you’re curious about why you sweat excessively, take a breath—sweating is a natural response to heat or anxiety, as explained by Dr. Hunter Q. Kirkland, a cardiothoracic surgeon. While sweating is a mechanism for cooling the body, some people experience extreme perspiration without an apparent cause, affecting various body parts and leading to sensations akin to living in a perpetual sauna. This could be indicative of hyperhidrosis, a medically diagnosable condition affecting around 4.8 percent of the population, or approximately 15.3 million Americans, according to research.
Ordinarily, sweating is a means of regulating body temperature, but excessive perspiration can result in stained clothing and body odors, influencing social interactions and self-esteem. Hyperhidrosis, described by the Mayo Clinic as abnormally excessive sweating unrelated to heat or exercise, can manifest through soaked clothing and heightened embarrassment or social anxiety.
Primary focal hyperhidrosis, the most common form, involves overactive nerves triggering sweat glands, causing sweat even in the absence of physical activity or elevated temperatures. On the other hand, secondary hyperhidrosis is a more serious type linked to central or peripheral nervous system dysfunction, often stemming from underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, heart attacks, infections, low blood sugar, menopausal hot flashes, nervous system disorders, certain cancers, or thyroid problems.
While excessive sweating itself may not be life-threatening, it can be uncomfortable, embarrassing, and anxiety-inducing. Medical treatments are available for hyperhidrosis, and if you find your sweating too troublesome, consulting with your primary care physician is recommended. One study has shown that primary hyperhidrosis increases the risk of skin infections, emphasizing the importance of seeking medical advice to regain control and avoid potential infections.
7 Things You Need to Know About Excessive Sweating
1. Armpit Sweat Makes It Difficult to Keep Clothes Dry
Excessive underarm sweating, known as axillary hyperhidrosis, can be identified by clothing choices. Fear of visible stains or damage to delicate fabrics may indicate dealing with excessive armpit sweat.
2. Deodorants Are Ineffective Against Armpit Sweat
Ordinary over-the-counter deodorants may not suffice for excessively sweaty armpits. Prescription-strength antiperspirants, especially those with high concentrations of aluminum chloride, may be recommended by a doctor.
3. Rumination About Sweaty Armpits
Underarm hyperhidrosis can consume thoughts, leading to self-consciousness, withdrawal from physical contact, and reluctance to engage in activities like dancing or exercising due to the fear of worsening armpit sweat.
4. Hygiene Isn’t the Culprit for Hyperhidrosis
Contrary to misconceptions, underarm hyperhidrosis is unrelated to hygiene. Frequent showering or changing clothes throughout the day won’t address the issue. Seeking advice from a doctor or dermatologist for hyperhidrosis treatment is crucial.
5. Medical Management for Coping With Excessive Sweating
While excessive sweating isn’t life-threatening, it can limit daily activities and lead to withdrawal. Seeking medical advice is recommended. Treatment options include prescription antiperspirants, creams, wipes, Botox injections, anticholinergic drugs, and, in extreme cases, surgery.
6. Profusely Sweaty Hands (Palmar Hyperhidrosis)
Those with underarm hyperhidrosis may also experience excessive sweating in areas such as hands, feet, and groin due to highly concentrated sweat glands. Palmar hyperhidrosis, affecting the palms, can hinder activities like writing, driving, or using a keyboard.
7. Sloshing in Sweaty Shoes (Plantar Hyperhidrosis)
Excessive armpit sweat may coincide with plantar hyperhidrosis, characterized by excessive sweating of the soles of the feet. Wet socks and shoes can lead to discomfort and embarrassment in public spaces.
