EXCESSIVE SWEATING. (Hyperidrosis)

Categories: Diseases of The Skin

This is a disorder of the sweat
glands in which sweat is thrown out in excessive quantities.



Symptoms. It may be great only in the armpit where it stains the

clothing. When it comes on the hands and feet they may be wet, clammy and

have an offensive odor. They may be soaked, inflamed and painful.



Causes. The local forms may be due to a nervous condition; it is often

the result of general debility.< r />


Treatment. General tonics are needed and those given under anemia, which

see. Applications for the local treatment. Solution of alum applied to

the part will act as an astringent.



White oak bark tea is good as anything. It should not be used so strong as

to stop sweating entirely. Then follow it with dusting powders of starch

or boric acid, containing salicylic acid (two to five per cent). When it

occurs upon the feet use the Diachylon ointment. It must be made up fresh

in a drug store. This is applied on strips of lint or muslin after the

parts have been thoroughly washed and dried; it should be renewed twice

daily, the parts being dried with soft towels and then covered with

dusting powder, followed by the ointment.