Tips to Manage Sweat

Lots of things make us sweat. Heat. Exercise. Stress. Sweating is normal, and it’s something we all must manage in our daily lives, whether it’s by taking a shower or putting on deodorant. However, for those of us who sweat excessively, managing our sweat becomes a whole lot more complicated.

If you have hyperhidrosis of think you have it, you know that “normal” methods of hiding or getting rid of sweat may not work for you. Your sweat doesn’t appear because of exercise or heat. Your sweat is always there. People with hyperhidrosis must manage their sweat at a whole other level. Managing sweat can be a stressful, tiring thing; it also can be a process of trial and error. Certain methods don’t work for certain people.

Here are some tips to manage your sweat:

• Bring disposable cleaning wipes with you wherever you go.
• Carry a dark-colored blazer, sweater, cardigan, or jacket with you to hide your sweat/sweat stains quickly if you need to.
• Carry an antiperspirant with you so you can reapply it throughout the day.
• Bring along perfume or cologne with you, so you can smell fresh all day.
• Pack a light/breathable cotton tank or t-shirt, in case you sweat a lot and need a back up shirt.
• Carry a handkerchief or small towel to blot and wipe sweat off.
• Avoid caffeine – it triggers sweat.
• Stay clear of hot sauces, peppers, and spices; they will increase the amount of sweat you produce.
• Drink lots of fluids, so your body temperature doesn’t get too high.
• Cut back on the alcohol.
• Keep a journal of what triggers your sweat, so you can avoid those things in the future.

You can store the items listed above in a backpack, gym bag, or purse. Managing your hyperhidrosis is possible, but it can be time consuming, annoying, and it doesn’t rid your body of sweat. If you want to reduce the amount you sweat, you’ll have to seek treatment for your hyperhidrosis.

When you go to the doctor, let him or her know what you’re currently using or doing to manage your sweat. Let the doctor know your triggers and what products/methods work for you and which don’t.

From prescription-level antiperspirants to Botox injections, there are several treatment options that may help decrease or even eliminate your symptoms. Dr. Peter Mikhail is a Tampa hyperhidrosis physician and surgeon with offices in Tampa and New Port Richey, Florida. To book a consult, click our Tampa hyperhidrosis contact page or call 727-312-4844.