As a born and bred Mumbai girl, sweating does not phase me. In fact, it feels like an old, ever-present friend. The kind that never takes a hint and overstays their welcome. Perspiring palms, damp clothes and sticky hair that’s forever one wash away from feeling fresh as just part and parcel of tropical living. But for some, the sweating doesn’t stop when the weather is cool or the nerves settle.
If you find yourself constantly mopping your brow, changing outfits multiple times a day, or even avoiding social situations, you might be dealing with excessive sweating—medically known as hyperhidrosis.
Sweat in overdrive?
“Hyperhidrosis is a condition that arises from an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which makes our sweat glands produce more sweat than required,” explains Dr Debjani Chakraborty, head of aesthetics at The Wellness Co. The condition can be classified as either primary or secondary: “The former is typically caused by a genetic predisposition to sweat and the latter mainly due to lifestyle factors, excessive weight, diabetes, thyroid imbalances or certain types of medications,” adds Dr Madhuri Agarwal, founder, Yavana Aesthetics Clinic.
How to spot hyperhidrosis
So, while you’re sweating buckets, how do you know which camp you fall into? Is it hyperhidrosis or just the sultry weather playing spoiler? The experts point out that sweating is a natural physiological response to heat, physical activity, or stress, but in hyperhidrosis, sweating is unpredictable and often without any obvious triggers. For example, you may find yourself sweating in an air-conditioned office or in the middle of the night. Dr Chakraborty explains that if the condition is disrupting your daily life it could indicate hyperhidrosis, and consulting a healthcare professional would be advisable.
Botox—the best fix?
Botox has risen to fame not only in dermatology clinics but across the internet, where beauty insiders swear by it as a miracle fix for hyperhidrosis—and for good reason. “Botox works by blocking the nerves that trigger sweat glands, significantly reducing sweating in problem areas like the underarms, palms, and soles,” says Dr Agarwal. Many of her patients refer to the treatment as a ‘game-changer’ because even a single session controls the issue for a good 6-8 months.
Additionally, the quick, virtually painless procedure requires no downtime, and while minor muscle weakness in the palms can occur, it typically resolves within a few days. Results of the treatment begin to show in just 3-4 weeks. Dr Agarwal affirms that “when administered by a board-certified dermatologist using FDA-approved products, the treatment is precise and safe.” Dr Chakraborty agrees: “Compared to prescription antiperspirants, which might irritate the skin, or oral medications that can have side effects like dry mouth or blurred vision, Botox is generally well-tolerated.”
Lifestyle tweaks to keep the sweat in check
Diet is another crucial factor in managing hyperhidrosis. You may enjoy spicy foods, caffeine and alcohol but these unfortunately can exacerbate sweating. Take some time out for yourself for self-care practices like meditation or yoga to alleviate anxiety-related sweating. Last but not least, opt for organic, breathable fabrics as they promote better air circulation and reduce skin irritation.
There are also plenty of OTC products like deodorants, antiperspirants, powders and wipes. While deodorants mask sweat, the others effectively absorb sweat and cut down the feeling of perspiration. You could even ask your doctor to suggest medicated products like anti-fungal powders, cornstarch powders, foot sprays and foot powders.
Indeed, hyperhidrosis can be awkward, but help is at hand. With professional guidance and a few simple lifestyle adjustments, you can manage it—so, don’t sweat it.
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