If you know anything about The Derm Institute of West Michigan, you know that we live by the phrase “Skin treatment is never just skin deep.” Sweating is a perfectly normal part of daily life, however, when the sweating becomes excessive and starts to interfere with daily life, it’s time to see a dermatologist.
Hyperhidrosis can affect personal relationships, especially when meeting new people. A study performed in 2017 found that 61% of participants mentioned that sweating had a significant impact on their lifestyle. Respondents also reported that they experienced challenges with physical contact, social settings, and intimacy due to symptoms of hyperhidrosis.
Embarrassment and anxiety can cause people with hyperhidrosis to try to hide their condition and avoid seeing a doctor. However, if you think you may suffer from hyperhidrosis, know that you are not alone. Science Daily reported that an estimated 7.8 million individuals, or 2.8% of the population, have hyperhidrosis. There are also a number of celebrities that have hyperhidrosis, some of which include:
- Halle Berry
- Cameron Diaz
- Steve Carell
- David Hasselhoff
- Robert Pattinson
Your condition does not define you, and seeking treatment can significantly improve quality of life.
In addition to treatment, here are some tips to help manage hyperhidrosis in your daily life:
- Relax and De-stress: Relaxation techniques such as meditation and yoga can help ease stress, which is a common cause of hyperhidrosis symptoms.
- Dress Comfortably: Wear what makes you most comfortable. If possible, avoid light colored t-shirts or jackets, as thinking about potential sweat stains may cause nervousness and stress. Wear something that will take your mind off sweating.
- Don’t Pretend Hyperhidrosis Doesn’t Exist: When you meet a new person and shake their hand, it can be especially difficult for those with palmar hyperhidrosis, which is sweating in the hands. If you’re comfortable enough, being upfront about it will take some pressure off you and avoid letting it be the “elephant in the room”.
- Be Prepared: If you’re going on a long trip, keep some extra towels and a change of clothes in your car. In case anything happens, you’ll be prepared and not in panic mode, which will likely cause more sweating.
- Take A Moment: If you are in a social situation and begin to feel uncomfortable, go to the restroom, dry off any excess sweat, reapply antiperspirant, and reapply any cosmetics or perfume. It’s completely normal to do this and no one will think twice.
- Talk to Your Dermatologist: While the previous tips can help you manage symptoms in the moment, the best steps to take are preventative. Talk to your dermatologist and discuss the right treatment plan for you and your skin story, and you can significantly improve your quality of life living with hyperhidrosis.
Want to learn more about how you can manage your symptoms at home? Download our Home Remedy Guide by clicking the link below!