Don't Sweat It: Tips For Surviving Summer From The International Hyperhidrosis Society

Main Category: Dermatology
Also Included In: Neurology / Neuroscience;  Public Health
Article Date: 08 Jun 2007 - 0:00 PDT

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June 21st marks the summer solstice and the first official day of summer. For many, summer is a favorite season - full of barbeques, pool parties, and picnics in the sun. But for the three percent of the population that suffers from excessive sweating, or hyperhidrosis, summer is a dreaded "sweat season," reports the International Hyperhidrosis Society.

While hyperhidrosis sufferers sweat excessively regardless of the temperature outside or how they are feeling inside, summer's high temperatures and humidity greatly aggravate the embarrassing and uncomfortable medical condition, causing sweaty feet to slip right out of flip-flops, sweaty faces to wash off sunscreen and fog sunglasses, sweaty armpits to "pit out" t- shirts, and sweaty hands to drop the barbeque spatula.

To help both excessive sweaters and normal sweaters to stay comfortable, healthy, and confident this summer, the International Hyperhidrosis Society (visit the Society online at http://www.SweatHelp.org) and their world experts in sweat have compiled the following list of summer survival tips.

-- Talk to a dermatologist about the effective treatments for excessive sweating including: over-the-counter or prescription antiperspirants, iontophoresis, and Botox. Visit http://www.SweatHelp.org to use the International Hyperhidrosis Society's Physician Finder to locate an experienced healthcare provider.

-- Drink early, drink often, and drink again - thirst is simply a sign your fluid levels are already low. Sweat plays a critical role in keeping your body cool in hot temperatures. The key to keeping this internal air conditioning system working properly is drinking enough fluids. If your urine is relatively clear you know you are drinking enough.

-- Wear loose, lightweight natural fabrics, and light-colored clothing. Loose clothing enables perspiration to evaporate and natural, breathable fabrics "wick" moisture away from your skin. Some of today's hi-tech textiles even include copper and silver to fight odor-causing bacteria and keep you cooler. Brands offering such new options include: Adidas, Nike, Columbia, Timberland and Dockers.

-- Protect your skin - sweating is yet another consequence of sun-damaged or burned skin, because it is not as effective at dissipating body heat. Stay out of direct sunlight whenever possible, wearing sunscreen, and consider wearing a wide-brimmed or long billed hat such as the ones found at http://www.Coolibar.com. For extreme sweaters, waterproof sunscreen gel or "sweat proof" and "sports" formulations are the best bets.

-- Choose lightweight, breathable or ventilated shoes - when it's hot outside, temperature in shoes can reach 120 degrees F. The IHHS recommends the shoes available at http://www.GlaGlaShoes.com, wearing open sandals or using sweat absorbing inserts such as Summer Soles (http://www.SummerSoles.com). Absorbent foot powders and antiperspirants can also be used on feet to minimize sweating and moisture buildup. Ask your dermatologist or podiatrist for a recommendation.

-- Change your antiperspirant routine and bust "pit stains." Choose a soft-solid formula and apply antiperspirant to underarms once in the morning and again prior to bedtime. Application twice daily-and especially before bedtime-has been shown to be more effective. Gently massaging the antiperspirant into the skin may be useful. Consider using a stronger over-the-counter antiperspirant such as Secret Clinical Strength. To avoid irritation, only apply antiperspirant to completely dry skin. If you suffer from an annoyingly sweaty face, consider applying an antiperspirant along your hairline. Follow the application tips mentioned above but test the product on a tiny area of skin first to make sure that it won't cause irritation.

Sunshine and sizzling temperatures are just around the corner, but thanks to these tips from experts at the International Hyperhidrosis Society, this summer will be no sweat.

About the International Hyperhidrosis Society

The International Hyperhidrosis Society is a non-profit organization that strives to improve quality of life for those affected by excessive sweating. The Society promotes research and conducts education on the physiological effects of hyperhidrosis, raises awareness about its emotional and economic impact and advocates for patient access to effective treatments. The International Hyperhidrosis Society is composed of members from all over the world, making it a true international network for people who treat or suffer from hyperhidrosis.

The International Hyperhidrosis Society's Web site, http://www.SweatHelp.org, includes a Physician Finder to help anyone with excessive sweating to find medical help, information on additional treatment options, and a comprehensive collection of insurance and reimbursement tools, including downloadable forms, which can help sufferers work with their physicians and health insurance plans to get the correct coverage for necessary treatments. There are practical tips to make the most out of appointments with physicians and information on clinical trials and a free newsletter that will keep everyone current on hyperhidrosis news and medical breakthroughs. A self assessment tool is also available to help people determine how much sweat is too much. And because hyperhidrosis usually starts in the teen years, the International Hyperhidrosis Society has created an online teen forum and workbook to help teenagers learn how to cope with the condition and find effective solutions.

IHHS
http://www.SweatHelp.org