Staying dry and fresh during the hotter months can be challenging for most of us. That’s because at that time of the year, those of us living in generally hotter or muggier locales have to cope with higher temperatures, and the body is forced to sweat more to keep its internal temperature regulated. When sweat on your skin evaporates, you lose some of your heat. This is typically a well-balanced natural process, but for people who have a condition called hyperhidrosis, the sweat glands remain overactive throughout the year—regardless of heat or exertion—producing heavier-than-normal sweating that may cause clammy feet and hands, soaked clothes and sheets, and other problems in your daily life. Although hyperhidrosis can happen at any time, excess heat is often an episode trigger. If you need some help dealing with profuse sweating during the summer (and fall, and beyond), miraDry® at our St. Louis-based practice may be the most effective solution.
In this post, our Laser & Dermatologic Surgery Center team aims to debunk some of the misconceptions about hyperhidrosis: an uncomfortable medical condition that is often poorly understood by sufferers:
Myth #1: Sweating is Always Good for You
As mentioned before, there are health benefits to sweating. After all, it’s an important body function. In addition to body temperature regulation, it helps to remove toxins from the body, keeps your pores clear, and improves mood. However, severe sweating from hyperhidrosis isn’t normal and may be a sign of other underlying health problems. It can lead to bacterial, viral, or fungal infections like athlete’s foot, warts, and heat rash, along with negative psychological effects.
Myth #2: Excessive Sweating is Rare
While you may feel self-conscious about the condition and not want to talk about it openly, know that there are millions of people going through the same situation as you.
Myth #3: You Can Stop Hyperhidrosis by Changing Your Lifestyle
It’s often assumed that people who have severe sweating are unfit or overweight, or that they’re stressed, or they aren’t showering or changing their clothes regularly to keep clean. The reality is that the exact causes of hyperhidrosis aren’t well known, but it is believed to be linked to genetics and other factors we can’t control.
Want to put an end to embarrassing sweating? Find out more about the benefits of miraDry® in St. Louis at the Laser & Dermatologic Surgery Center office. Call us at (314) 878-3839 or send us a message online.
