Are you suffering from excessive sweating?
It might be a
sweat gland dysfunction!
 Hyperhydrosis or Hyperhidrosis (Excessive Sweating of hands, feet, face, armpits etc)
Dyshydrosis - dysfunction of the sweat glands resulting in abnormal function
Bromhydrosis (smelly feet, wet feet, damp feet, trench foot, immersion foot)
Hyperhydrosis is a condition in which the sweat glands are over productive resulting in excessive perspiration. This condition is most common in adolescents and young adults. We all have a different metabolism. Our metabolism acts like a thermostat. For some, this may be due to anxiety, stress, hyperthyroidism, hypo-adrenalin or excessive fluid intake. For others, it's just their natural metabolic defense mechanism.
Bromhydrosis is a condition that occurs when hyperhydrosis is accompanied with a foul odor. This distinctive odor is actually caused by bacteria helping to decompose the perspiration and dead skin cells on the foot and those that are left in the shoe or sock. This is a condition that is bothersome and embarrassing to many.
Disorders of the sweat glands are commonly grouped into a category of conditions referred to as dyshydrosis. Each of these conditions result in an unusual environment that the skin was not designed to manage. Several unique skin conditions occur as a result of dyshydrosis. One common condition seen in children is called toe box dermatitis. Toe box dermatitis is characterized by peeling of the toes and occasionally, ingrown nails caused by wearing shoes that were too tight.
There is a controversy with inhibiting perspiration. Perspiration is the body's natural way to cool down and rid itself of toxic material. Inhibiting perspiration by any means could result in the accumulation of free radicals and other metabolic waste.
Treatment of hyperhydrosis and bromhydrosis
There are several medications available to ease the symptoms of hyperhydrosis and bromhydrosis and fungal conditions of the foot. Remember that these medications are only treating the symptoms, not the condition itself.
Here are some tips to lessen the symptoms of hyperhydrosis:
1. The shoe must be cool, dry and accessible to UV light
2. Change your shoes every other day to allow them to dry completely
3. Your shoe must be breathable and absorb moisture (leather, cotton or cloth). Avoid synthetic materials like rubber or vinyl
4. Change socks frequently
5. Use talc or baby powder daily inside your socks and in your shoes
Drying agents are useful to help control perspiration. Aluminum chloride is the most commonly used topical drying agent. Aluminum chloride is found in many under arm anti-perspirants and in several prescription strength medications used to treat hyperhydrosis. |