Sweating, while not the most glamorous of bodily functions, is absolutely essential for detoxification, cooling and fluid regulation. Without the ability to sweat, our bodies would be prone to overheating and burdened by toxins and waste.
But for all its positive effects, it's natural to have a love/hate relationship with perspiration. It feels exhilarating to sweat through a vigorous workout, but it just plain stinks when sweat rears its ugly head at inappropriate times (say, during an important interview or while you're wearing your favorite silk blouse). Fortunately for some of us, sweat is controllable. But for others, sweat is more than a nuisance. It's downright problematic. Read on to find out how to control your perspiration, whatever the amount, and what to do if sweat truly affects your quality of life.
Excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, affects about one to three percent of the population, causing serious problems. How can you tell if hyperhidrosis affects you? While it's hard to define just how much sweat is excessive, any amount of sweat that is regularly embarrassing or interferes with your daily life warrants treatment. Excessive sweating usually occurs on palms, under armpits or soles of the feet and begins at puberty. Unsurprisingly, it's a problem that many people live with, though there are now options that successfully manage symptoms.
Botox injections in the sweat-prone area are one such treatment, which can eliminate the problem for months at a time. These shots can be painful and expensive, though some insurance plans will foot the bill. Another option is Iontophoresis, a skin-thickening treatment that involves soaking hands or feet in water through which a mild electric current runs. To remain effective, each 20- to 40-minute treatment (which can be done at home) must be repeated several times a week. Excessive, all-over body sweating may be a sign of a thyroid or nervous system disorder, or low blood sugar and anyone who experiences this regularly should see a doctor.
If your perspiration isn't enough to warrant treatment, but you've ruined more than a few items of clothing with underarm sweat, you might be a candidate for a stronger deodorant. Prescription or clinical strength antiperspirants are available from your doctor, as well as over the counter from brands like Dove, Secret and Gillette.
Men should remember to wear a plain white cotton tee under collared shirts as the first line of defense against sweat stains. White shirts can be bleached to remove stains, and if sweat seeps into other clothing, spot treat the affected area with a color-safe bleach formula and wash or dry-clean as soon as possible. The stain will be easiest to remove if it doesn't sit for days. More tips that will reduce sweating: watch your weight, as heavier people often sweat more to properly cool themselves. And get rid of excess body hair, which traps oils and bacteria, causing tell-tale body odor.
Overall, be sure to take steps to treat excessive sweating if it affects you adversely. A boost in confidence will be your ample reward!
