Sweating is a normal bodily function and is the body’s way of cooling down when too hot. But for some people, sweating can become a major issue. This is a medical condition known as hyperhidrosis. Individuals with hyperhidrosis may sweat for no obvious reason, which can become embarrassing for a variety of reasons.
For example, some people will sweat so much that their hands start to drip, or their clothing becomes wet in certain places such as under their arms or on their chest. If the individual is not hot or has not been exercising, this excessive sweat can cause social anxiety as well as deep embarrassment. Excessive sweating can even become so bad that it affects everyday life. But is there anything that can be done to manage the problem?
How to Deal with Excessive Sweating
Excessive sweating can affect just one part of the body such as the hands or the feet or it can affect the entire body. There are some things that you can do to lessen the impact and reduce the signs of hyperhidrosis. For example, avoid wearing tight fitting clothing or clothing that does not allow your body to breathe. It is much better to wear loose fitting clothing items made from natural fabrics such as cotton.
If you suffer sweaty feet, try changing your socks at least a couple of times a day and washing them every day. You can also make a point of wearing leather shoes and alternating them so that you never wear the same shoes every day. This will allow them to breathe and air, preventing the buildup of bacteria. The experts at ShoeFresh, recommend using a shoe deodorizer that can eliminate odors for up to three months.
Visiting your local drug store and speaking to a pharmacist could also help. A stronger antiperspirant may be necessary to prevent excessive sweating. You might also be given advice regarding suitable soaps and powders that can help to minimize the problem.
Some people will try various remedies said to help with excessive sweating, but there is little evidence to suggest that they will work. However, if you are plagued by hyperhidrosis, you might be willing to try anything to get some relief. Some of the home remedies that people believe can help with excessive sweating include:
- a glass of fresh tomato juice everyday
- two teaspoons of natural vinegar mixed with one teaspoon of apple cider vinegar three times a day
- rubbing sliced potatoes on affected areas
- drinking sage tea every day
- soaking cotton wool balls in witch hazel and rubbing on affected areas
- soaking sweaty palms in cooled boiled tea
- eating a handful of grapes twice per day.
If you are willing to try the above remedies, you may find that one works for you. However, if you have tried everything and nothing is working, it may be time to visit a doctor, especially if you have been dealing with the issue for several months and it is affecting your everyday life. It may be that the excessive sweating is caused by an underlying health condition or because of a medication you are taking.
If your regular doctor cannot find the cause of your hyperhidrosis, you might be referred to a specialist dermatologist. Some doctors will prescribe medication to reduce the sweating, or you might be referred for Botox injections. In extreme circumstances, removal of the sweat glands may be necessary.
To conclude, excessive sweating can be a real problem for some people. If you are suffering with hyperhidrosis, there are several things you can try at home, but if these do not work it may be time to visit a doctor.