Perspiration

A common problem among us all through out the summer season is perspiration or sweating.

What is Perspiration?

It is an internal fluid consisting mainly of water and salt that exits through the pours of your skin, to help cool down the body. It may occur during or after exercise, while sitting in the beautiful sunshine or when feelings of nervousness and anxiety are experienced. Perspiration can be handled in various ways and below is some information on what causes excessive perspiration and what you can do to help prevent it.

Common Causes:
-Genes: Some people inherit the unfortunate trait of excessive sweating, especially on the palms or soles of their feet.
-Diet: Drinking hot beverages and especially those with caffeine or alcohol. Eating spicy food can have a sweating affect.
-Fevers: Occurs when the body's temperature rises above its normal level and reacts by sweating excessively to help cool the body down at an efficient rate.
-Low Blood Sugar (hypoglycemia): Common in those who have diabetes. Common symptoms of hypoglycemia include sweating, shakiness, weakness, hunger, dizziness and nausea.
-Menopause: Women experiencing menopause have hot flashes which causes a rise in temperature accompanied by sweating and feeling of intense heat (due to drop in estrogen levels).
-Low Levels of Male Hormones: Men with low testosterone levels (condition known as hypogonadism) caused by reduced functioning of the testicles can also experience hot flashes.

Reducing Perspiration:
-Bathe Daily: Prevents bacteria from growing on the skin's surface, which causes an odor when mixed with perspiration.
-Dry Thoroughly After Bathing: Bacteria thrive on damp spaces.
-Wear Proper Foot Wear: Shoes made of natural material (such as leather) help feet breathe. Wear socks made of cotton or wool and pantyhose with cotton soles as they help keep feet dry by absorbing any moisture.
-Choose Natural Fiber Clothing: Wear natural fabrics such as cotton, wool and silk, which allow your skin to breath. When exercising wear high tech fabrics that keep moisture away from the skins surface.
-Relaxation Techniques:
If stress is a factor, try yoga or meditation; it may help you to control your stress level, therefore lowering perspiration.
-Air Feet Out: Go barefoot when you can, or at least slip out of your shoes from time to time. This allows your feet to breath, helps keep them dry and cools down the entire body.