Body Temperature: Sweating & Coldness / Question
Published: May 9, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I've had a sweating problem for several years now. It has come to the point where I can't even wear tight shirts anymore without sweating TONS. It seems to really only happen when I think about it but when I try not to think about it, I can't help it. I've tried prescription deodorants but they don't help. It really bothers me and even distracts me at school. Please help me!
Signed: Help, I'm Sweating
Dear Help, I'm Sweating,
Sweating can be an annoying problem, but it is physiological response produce by the body to cool it down during exercise or when stress or nervousness excites the body. As you said the more you think about it, the more you sweat. This is because you are causing your body to become more agitated or nervous and this stimulated the glands to perspire. Try not to think about it, by turning your thoughts to anything else, like going to the movies or the beach (something fun you like to do). Tight clothing can often be a problem because it causes your body to feel suffocated and make you perspire in order to breathe. When you are exercising try wearing a tank top. This will allow your body to feel cool and most likely sweat less.
A person who experiences excessive sweating is said to suffer from Hyperhidrosis. This is the medical term for the over production of sweat. Although you have tried prescription deodorants you may benefit from talking to your doctor again to talk about other available treatments. You can also experiment with different types of clothing material to see which you feel more comfortable in.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
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