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Sweating in the heat, during exercise, or when stressed is natural and expected. However, if you find yourself excessively sweating in the absence of these conditions, you might have a condition known as hyperhidrosis, according to an expert.
This form of excessive sweating “can have a significant impact on a person’s quality of life,” said Dr. Shoshana Marmon, a clinical assistant professor of dermatology at New York Medical College.
“Not only is there a physical toll, from sweating through clothing to visible beads of sweat on the body, but there is often an emotional component due to social discomfort or self-consciousness associated with the condition,” she added in a news release from the American Academy of Dermatology.
Certain people may be at higher risk, including those who have a family member with the condition, individuals with medical conditions that cause excessive sweating, or those who consume foods or supplements that trigger sweating.
Similar to normal sweating, heat, stress, and consuming spicy foods or caffeine can trigger hyperhidrosis flare-ups, Marmon said.
Signs of Hyperhidrosis
Some of the signs of hyperhidrosis include:
- Sweating that interferes with everyday activities, such as forming noticeable sweat stains on clothing or having hands so sweaty that common tasks become difficult, like turning a doorknob or using computer keyboards.
- Visible sweat on the skin.
- Skin that becomes soft, white, and may even peel in certain areas.
- More frequent skin infections, such as jock itch or athlete’s foot.
“Although there is no cure for hyperhidrosis, treatments can significantly help to manage symptoms,” said Dr. Marmon. “If your sweating persists without relief, partner with a board-certified dermatologist to develop a customized treatment plan that is right for you.”
Tips for Managing Excessive Sweating
While there is no cure for hyperhidrosis, several steps can help manage symptoms:
- Use an Antiperspirant: Antiperspirants work by plugging sweat glands, thus inhibiting sweating, whereas deodorants simply mask sweat’s smell and body odor. Apply antiperspirant to dry skin at bedtime and again in the morning. Apply it to any body area that noticeably sweats, including palms, back, and behind the knees.
- Wear Breathable Fabrics: Cotton and other breathable fabrics are preferred. Consider using armpit shields to prevent “pit stains” on clothes. Keep a spare set of clothes handy.
- Footwear: Change footwear often and let shoes dry out—avoid wearing the same pair two days in a row. Natural materials like leather allow better air circulation than synthetic or plastic footwear. Choose cotton socks to help draw moisture away from the skin.
- Preventing Infections: These steps can help reduce the risk of athlete’s foot and other infections.
- Keep a “Sweat Diary”: Track situations and places where sweating is most common to help avoid them in the future.
- Mental Health: Hyperhidrosis can make people self-conscious and can lead to depression. Educating yourself about the condition and reaching out to support groups can provide relief.
By following these tips and consulting with a dermatologist, individuals with hyperhidrosis can manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
