Definitely annoying, excessive underarm sweating is never a welcome sight. The condition itself seems to effortlessly instigate embarrassment. Even though its sufferers are starting to get accustomed to it – not to mention getting accustomed also to the tricks, the tauntings, the teasing as well – this is still not acceptable to others. What makes it harder is that it is difficult to conceal, unlike the rest of the types of hyperhidrosis, and it becomes most noticeable in the presence of that all too distinct, nasty, underarm odor.

If you are among those who unfortunately have this condition, then it may be necessary to know yourself – in a sense – better. What is the ultimate cause for excessive sweating?

Sweating is the key temperature regulating mechanism of the body. It lowers down body temperature heat dissipation. Sweating is normal when it is a retort to elevation of temperature of the surrounding atmosphere. Excessive sweating or hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is sweating in abnormally large quantities even when everything around is normal.

Tagged as hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating can be either of two kinds: primary or secondary hyperhidrosis. Primary hyperhidrosis is basically overactivity of the sweat glands due to the triggering excess nervous stimulation. This is the type that is often passed down in families, from generation to generation. Luckily, the solutions for primary hyperhidrosis are relatively easy to find, unlike secondary hyperhidrosis.

Secondary hyperhidrosis is because of an underlying medical condition. Some cases are life threatening and call for urgent medical attention. In this case, it is crucial to present a solution first to the underlying condition, then do the worrying about the effects (such as sweating) afterwards. The absence of the underlying condition may signify removal of the problem of sweating. Some ailments linked to hyperhidrosis are diabetes, hyperthyroidism and cardiovascular problems.

What do we need to bear in mind in dealing with excessive underarm sweating?

Consult a doctor. It is necessary to rule out possibilities of underlying conditions. A doctor can also help you with prescription medicines you need to stop sweating.

Do not get tempted by caffeine. Yes, caffeine containing products are very nice to smell and taste. But as a stimulant, it needs to be avoided. Believe me, I struggled breaking away from it. But it will make a great deal of difference in your sweating pattern.

Detoxify your system. Sweating will compensate for anything that is not in balance within your system. If you are loaded with toxins, the body can use sweating to get it out, and in return your get sticky, slimy sweat. Go for vegetables and fruits in your diet, these are all pumped up with antioxidants. You can also go for taking in foods rich in magnesium, such as pumpkin seeds. Magnesium is great for detoxification.

Wear light, loose clothing – no undershirts if possible. Loading up with fabric can help increase your body temperature, thus resulting to sweating. As much as possible keep your body cool by wearing fabric that allows air to pass through freely.

These are just some of the dozens of methods on controlling body sweat. But based on my experience, I am very much sure they will work. So go sweat free, the safe way!