$Unique_ID{BRK00725}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{A Terrible Problem With Sweating and Body Odor}
$Subject{sweating odor stress Skin sweat gland glands perspiration
hyperhidrosis palms soles axilla armpit infection fever endocrine offensive
odor bromhidrosis bacteria yeasts thyroid nervous chlorhexidine aluminum
chlorhydrox infections}
$Volume{L-22}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


A Terrible Problem With Sweating and Body Odor


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QUESTION:  I have a terrible problem with sweating, and the resulting body
odor that it brings.  As a result I tend to shun social gatherings and keep to
myself.  But there must be a better way.  Can you at least give a name to my
problem so that I can seek help?

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ANSWER:  the medical name applied to excessive perspiration due to overactive
of the sweat glands is "hyperhidrosis".  While it may occur over the entire
body, it frequently is restricted to the palms, soles, axilla (armpit),
beneath the breasts or the groin.  It may occur when there is a skin
infection, as a reaction to heat, either in your surroundings or when you have
a fever, or as a result of an endocrine problem (overactive thyroid, for one)
or a disorder in the central nervous system.  Wets palms and soles may be the
result of nervous tension and anxiety, and can happen to anyone under stress.
In many cases excessive localized perspiration can occur in otherwise normal
individuals without any cause that can be discovered.  When the problem also
presents with a heavy, offensive odor, it is called "bromhidrosis", where the
bad smell is caused the decomposition of the sweat and other cellular debris
by bacteria and yeasts.  The best results of treatment occur when an
underlying cause can be identified and remedied.  While deodorants may help
mask the odor by reducing bacterial growth, they do not reduce perspiration.
Antiperspirants, particularly those that contain aluminum chloride hexadrate,
can be quite effective in reducing perspiration flow, as well as preventing
bacterial action.  For those affected by odor, scrupulous cleanliness is an
absolute.  A liquid soap containing chlorhexidine is helpful when combined
with aluminum chlorhydrox complex preparations.  Shaving the axillary hair is
indicated, and when all else fails, surgical removal of the glands may be
necessary.  However, it would all be worth it if it enables you to return to a
normal, socially active existence, without fear of upturned eyes and
rejection.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.