Sweating too Much
Sometimes thought of as "problem perspiration, " but the truth is that sweating too much is not only a social problem. Sweating too much is a genuine medical condition that's as mentally and emotionally disabling as it is socially embarrassing. Some, people who endure sweating too much often do not realize that their condition can be treated. Instead, they try to compensate for it, avoiding social situations and isolating themselves from other people out of fear of embarrassment.
It is too bad; many people who suffer from excessive sweating think they're the only ones with this problem. It is not too well known, just in the United States alone, approximately 7.6 million people suffer from excessive sweating. They suffer the discomfort and embarrassment that comes with sweating too much. Excessive sweating, known by the medical term "hyperhidrosis”, has only recently begun to get the attention needed to do something about it.
You would think that is this day and age that the cause for sweating too much would be identified. People young and old both endure excess sweating in the armpits, hands, feet, face, scalp and neck. They often find themselves drenched in sweat for no apparent reason. The problem is compounded for women sufferers, who give up wearing make-up for fear that excess perspiration will melt their cosmetics off their faces!
Initial research has linked it to a genetic disorder, but there are really no definite solid cast studies for why it happens. Doctors now believe that sweating too much occurs because of an overreaction by the sympathetic part of the nervous system. This is the body function that controls sweating to regulate body temperature. Emotional stress worsens the condition. Sometimes sweating too much can be a side effect of drugs used to treat high blood pressure or depression. Obesity can be a factor, but not always. Not knowing what causes sweating too much adds a lot of frustration and discomfort.
Thankfully there are more treatments now for sweating too much that provide some relief than there have been in the past. Hyperhidrosis treatments today offer surgical or non-surgical methods. Surgical methods can involve treating the sweat glands with electric shocks to "short-circuit" the nerve response. Botox injections are proving beneficial for excessive underarm sweating, but they're not approved for other parts of the body. However, surgical treatment can result in side effects, such as loss of sensation in the affected area or compensatory sweating elsewhere in the body.
Some non-surgical treatments for hyperhidrosis use medications to reduce sweating. Sometimes antiperspirants, either over-the-counter or prescription strength, bring relief. Sufferers who prefer a more natural approach are trying herbal remedies like those used by women who sweat excessively due to menopause.
No matter what, sweating too much shouldn't be seen as a personal failure or condemnation to the life of recluse, but as a medical condition requiring treatment. See your doctor about finding the treatment options that are best for you.
