Armpit Sweating Problems

Excessive armpit sweating, also known as axillary hyperhidrosis, is a condition that is estimated to affect nearly 3 percent of the population. This disorder, which involves extreme smelly sweating of the underarms, can be emotionally debilitating, bringing humiliation and embarrassment to the sufferer. All areas of the body are capable of sweating, but armpit sweating is particularly unsightly and troubling.

Sweating

• Sweating is a natural phenomenon, helping to cool the body by releasing excess heat. It is usual for sweating to occur when a person is under a stressful and tension-filled situation or participating in a physical activity, such as exercise, work or sports. High temperatures and humidity also can bring on excessive sweating. Individuals with axillary hyperhidrosis, however, can experience excessive sweating during ordinary, day-to-day conditions.

Causes

• The normal sweating process provides lubrication for the arms to avoid chafing or soreness while rubbing against the body. The basic reason someone experiences excessive armpit sweating is that the sympathetic nervous system, which is located in the chest cavity, is overstimulated. This system sends signals to the sweat glands to produce sweat; with axillary hyperhidrosis, though, the glands begin to produce substantial amounts of sweat, finding outlets on the underarms, face, palms and feet. Other causes for this disorder include anxiety, obesity, stress, specific foods and emotional stimuli.

Social Impact

• Excessive armpit sweating can bring about social discomfort and embarrassment. The visible sweat marks on one's clothing, the odor and the anxiety can lead to a lack of confidence, low self-esteem and isolation, affecting both the personal and professional aspects of one's life. Underarm sweating can be more socially incapacitating than the actual medical aspects of the condition.

Treatment

• Unfortunately, this is a difficult condition to treat. Strong antiperspirants, designed specifically to alleviate excessive armpit sweating, are the preferred treatment; however, very often they give the sufferer no relief, at which time prescription drugs may be recommended by a medical professional. In 2004, the FDA approved Botox to be used to treat this condition; Botox blocks the underarm nerves, which cause the sweating.

Prevention

• Because some people react to certain antiperspirants or other medical techniques differently from other people, individuals need to discover the appropriate methods that work for them. It is also important to have a good daily hygiene routine, including an excellent antiperspirant and a good diet that avoids onions and garlic. Individuals also should avoid silk and other artificial materials, which can show sweat stains more readily than other materials, particularly natural fibers. They should wear loose-fitting clothes that are light in color to avoid absorbing too much of the sun's heat.