|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Everyday Solutions
The first step in managing hyperhidrosis is talking
to your doctor about it. Because hyperhidrosis is a medical
condition, it is best treated by a medical
professional with the expertise to help you decide which
of the available treatments
is right for your individual situation. But while only a doctor can prescribe or perform certain
hyperhidrosis treatments, there are things you can do to
help make excessive sweating less of a burden on your everyday
life:
- Bathe daily using an antibacterial soap to keep the amount of
bacteria on your skin under control. The mixture of bacteria and
sweat on your skin can cause body odor.
- Dry yourself thoroughly after you bathe. Bacteria and
fungi (which can cause body odor and infections on irritated
skin) thrive in damp spaces, like between your toes. If you have sweaty feet,
use powders or absorbent insoles, such as Summer Soles.
- Apply antiperspirants
twice per day, morning and
evening. Or, if you're only using an antiperspirant
once per day, apply it in the evening instead of in
the morning. Antiperspirants may be used on hands and feet as well as on underarms. Gently
massaging them into the skin may be useful. If you’re
using a prescription or high-potency antiperspirant, follow
your doctor’s instructions carefully and remember that
these products may damage clothing and linens. To limit
this damage, wear old pajamas if the antiperspirant is applied
at night, before bedtime.
- Choose air-permeable clothing. Wear natural fabrics, such
as cotton, wool, and silk, which allow your skin to breathe.
When you exercise, you might prefer high-tech fabrics that
wick moisture away from your skin.
- “Underarm liners”, small pads that go in your
armpits to absorb sweat, may be an option for you. You may
also want to keep an extra shirt with you for emergencies.
- Launder your clothes and/or change your shoes and clothing
often.
- If you have trouble with sweaty feet, rotate your shoes.
Your shoes may not dry out overnight, so try not to wear
the same pair two days in a row. Also, try inserts
that help to absorb and dissipate sweat.
- Wear the right socks. Moisture-wicking athletic socks
are a good choice. These may be made of merino wool (which
doesn’t itch) or a synthetic blend sometimes called
“polypro”.
- Change your socks often. Change socks or pantyhose once
or twice a
day, drying your feet thoroughly each time. Women should
try pantyhose with cotton soles.
- Air your feet. Go barefoot when you can, or at least slip
out of your shoes now and then.
- Avoid hot beverages (such as coffee), alcohol, and spices,
which can make you sweat.
- Try relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation, or
biofeedback. These can help you learn to control the stress
that can trigger perspiration.
- Change your diet. Make note of any foods or beverages
that cause you to sweat more than usual. Consider eliminating
caffeinated drinks (like coffee and cola) from your diet
as well as alcohol, certain “hot” spices, and
foods with strong odors, such as garlic and onions.
- Join a support group or online discussion board and
subscribe to our e-newsletter SweatSolutions for
moral support and to learn more about new treatments.
Do you have an everyday solution that would be helpful
to other hyperhidrosis sufferers? Tell us about it by
e-mailing info@SweatHelp.org.
Important Submission Information
Thank you in advance for writing to the International Hyperhidrosis Society.
Your comments, suggestions, and stories of experiences are appreciated. As you write to us,
please recognize that the International Hyperhidrosis Society reserves the right to edit
submissions, which may be published or otherwise used in any medium. Such use, however, is
always in keeping with our privacy policy
and your privacy is important to us and respected. All
submissions become property of the International Hyperhidrosis Society.
|
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
Find a doctor who treats excessive sweating. |
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
