Summer and the Battle Against Perspiration

What do movie star Tom Cruise, Cameron Diaz, supermodel Naomi Campbell, and PM Tony Blair have in common?

They have all been the laughingstock of the global Internet community after their photographs, sweat-stained underarms and all, were posted on the web.

This year the heat comes early and following closely on its heels is the fight against sweat. People with hyperhidrosis are already dreading the summer and the excessive perspiration of the hands, feet, underarms, and other body parts.

Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating disorder, involves abnormally large releases of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine. It stimulates sweat glands and causes excessive perspiration.

Here are some treatments for people with perspiration-related problems, such as hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating), or bromidrosis (body odor).

Daily Precautions for Mild Symptoms-

People with excessive sweating disorders must pay special attention to their hygiene.

After a bout with perspiration, you should shower with antibacterial soap. Once you are done, remember to dry off completely, and using a talcum powder will keep your body soft and dry for much longer.

When you go out, use an anti-perspirant or topical ointment to suppress sweat as well as mask unwanted odors.

Spray-type deodorant is easy to use and inhibits both perspiration and odor. Excessive hair on the body sometimes means more odor-causing bacteria; therefore, hair removal can be a possible solution, too.

During exercise, if excessive sweating is a problem, decrease the length of exercise to thirty minutes. Drink a lot of water to make up for the sweat released, otherwise the blood can thicken and cause problems with circulation which in some cases, can include fainting or wooziness.

People with hyperhidrosis should always remember to drink a lot of water during physical activity even though they are not thirsty.

Also, caffeinated beverages such as coffee, black tea, or some soft drinks, should be avoided because they promote blood circulation, thereby increasing sweat gland activity.

Contemplate Surgery for Severe Symptoms-

When diagnosing hyperhidrosis (excessive sweating disorder), the amount of perspiration secreted is a significant factor, but more important is the patient’s own level of discomfort. If the perspiration becomes a hindrance in their careers, relationships, or leading normal lives, than the patient can be subject to treatment.

Some medical treatment for hyperhidrosis includes medication, botox injections, surgical operations, or iontophoresis (ion treatment).

People suffering from excessive sweating of the hands and feet can try botox injections or prescribed medication. If it is severe, surgery where the nerves are blocked is also a possibility.

In the case of underarms, “Liposat” liposuction surgery can be used to remove sweat glands. And for small areas, like the forehead or nose, too much perspiration can be resolved with botox injections.

Doctor Kang Jin-soo is a dermatological specialist and director of the Kangskin System Skin Care Clinic. “Many people believe that excessive sweating is simply an unfortunate quirk of their bodily constitution,” the doctor states. He also advised, “If the perspiration is significant enough to interfere with your work or private life, it would be wise to consult with a specialist for the proper treatment.”

mint4a@donga.com