Spicy or Mild? Help for Eating-Induced Hyperhidrosis

No matter what's on the menu, do you sweat profusely when you eat? Or when you simply think about a meal? You may have a unique and distinct form of excessive sweating called gustatory hyperhidrosis or Frey's syndrome. This food-related sweating can be extremely embarrassing, but treatments are available. In fact, Botox injections have been used to provide up to two years of relief from gustatory sweating!

It's not uncommon to sweat when you eat hot or spicy foods. It just makes sense...if eating or drinking a specific food raises your body temperature, then your body will try to cool itself by sweating.

But some people sweat when they eat any kind of food (even ice cream) and some people sweat when they just think about food. Often called gustatory sweating or gustatory hyperhidrosis (and sometimes called Frey's syndrome), this food-related sweating can be extremely embarrassing and uncomfortable. Imagine yourself sweating excessively on your face and neck at a fancy restaurant while on a dinner date, or sweating as you wait for a business lunch to be served. Fortunately, treatment for gustatory sweating is possible, so don't throw away your Zagat's restaurant guide yet!

Many cases of gustatory sweating show up after surgery or trauma to a parotid gland. Most people have a pair of parotid glands, one located on each side of the face, below and in front of the external ear. The parotid glands are the body's largest salivary glands. Saliva, as you probably know, is a fluid secreted by salivary glands to aid chewing, swallowing, and digestion of food. Saliva is produced in preparation for eating (like when you are thinking about a delicious meal) as well as during chewing.

If a parotid gland is damaged or if surgery to a parotid is required (damage can occur due to inflammation, infection, and mumps, and tumors can require surgery) then related nerves may become damaged or may regenerate from such damage in a way that causes them to become "mixed up" and/or "intertwined" (so to speak). The result is that when a person is supposed to salivate, her or she may also sweat and experience facial flushing. This combination of sweating and flushing related to parotid trauma is called Frey's syndrome. Usually Frey's syndrome affects just one side of the face.

Gustatory sweating can also occur for no known reason (idiopathic) or related to another medical condition ("secondary hyperhidrosis" due to conditions such as diabetes, cluster headaches, Parkinson's, and facial herpes zoster or shingles). In these cases, the sweating is often experienced on both sides of the face and particularly on the temples, forehead, cheeks, neck, and/or chest, as well as around the lips. Redness and sweating may appear when an affected person eats, sees, thinks about, or talks about foods.

Gustatory sweating can be very distressing because the mere idea of food can make a patient's face drenched with sweat. And because much of life's business (friendships, romances, networking, and celebrations) is conducted at mealtime, gustatory sweating can have extensive social, economic, and emotional implications. Fortunately, there are treatments available and dermatologists can help. In particular, topical antiperspirants, and Botox injections have been shown to provide significant relief. According to Dr. David Pariser (founding Member and Secretary of the International Hyperhidrosis Society as well as 2009 President of the American Academy of Dermatology), Botox injections can provide "a couple of years" of relief from gustatory sweating. This is a much longer duration of effectiveness than is typically seen when Botox is used to treat other forms of hyperhidrosis. (Please note, Botox has not been approved by the FDA for the treatment of gustatory sweating or Frey's syndrome so this is an "off-label" use of the medication. Off-label uses of medications are, however, very common.)

If you suffer from gustatory sweating, the first step is to try and figure out why. Your primary care physician can help you begin this process with a physical exam and thorough medical history. He or she may refer you to specialists if necessary.

Be sure to tell your doctor when and how much you sweat – Do some foods cause more problems than others? Where do you sweat? How much? How upset does this sweating make you? How does it affect your life and your relationships (at home and at work)? Do you sweat elsewhere on your body and at other times? Do you have other medical conditions? Have you ever had parotid surgery or mumps?

If your gustatory sweating is not due to another, treatable medical condition, then perhaps a dermatologist who specializes in hyperhidrosis is a good choice for "next steps." A dermatologist can help you decide if a topical treatment (antiperspirant) or Botox is appropriate to treat your unique case of hyperhidrosis.

Don't let another meal be ruined by sweat. You can get help for eating-induced sweating, and we are here to help.

5 Myths and 1 Truth about Summer Sweat

Quakertown, PA – March 22, 2011 -- Spring has sprung, which means summer sweat is not far behind. After the record-topping, thermometer-popping swelter of last year, it’s time to know the facts and fallacies about handling the heat. The Sweat Experts at the International Hyperhidrosis Society® are on-hand to debunk the myths and share the truth to help keep you cool throughout summer 2011.

Myth #1: Antiperspirants are for sweaty underarms only.
Think outside the pits! You can glide, stick, spray, and roll-on nearly any where that sweating is a problem (think sweaty hands, feet, face, back, chest, and even groin). Be smart and talk to your dermatologist first before applying an antiperspirant to sensitive areas.

Myth #2: Sweaty people are out-of-shape, nervous or have hygiene issues.
Don’t judge the sweat! The average person has 2 to 4 million sweat glands -- essential to human survival since they work as the body’s coolant, protecting it from overheating. Athletes actually sweat more than other people because their bodies have become very efficient at keeping cool.

Myth #3: You should ditch the stick because antiperspirants can cause breast cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
Don’t be an April fool! There is no scientific evidence to support either claim. In fact, the American Cancer Society and the Alzheimer’s Association have refuted the rumor that antiperspirants (specifically the aluminum salts used as active ingredients) are linked to cancer or Alzheimer’s. Cut dietary salt to avoid health risks.

Myth #4: Like caffeine, antiperspirants are best used in the morning.
Pick a p.m. perk! Skip the bedtime espresso but do use your antiperspirant in the p.m. as well as the a.m. Sweat production is at its lowest at night, giving the active ingredients in antiperspirants a better chance to get into your pores and block perspiration in the morning when you really get moving.

Myth #5: Surgery is the only way to stop excessive sweating.
Ouch! Not only is it not true, it’s a tragic myth. Side effects of ETS surgery (endoscopic thoracic sympathectomy) can be worse than the original sweat problem. For 90% of patients, post-surgery ‘compensatory’ sweating on the back, chest, abdomen, legs, face, and buttocks doesn’t go away. Try clinical strength antiperspirants, iontophoresis, Botox injections, liposuction or the new FDA-cleared electromagnetic treatment, miraDry, before turning to surgery.

Truth: Excessive sweating is a treatable skin disease affecting 178 million people worldwide. Hyperhidrosis, or excessive sweating, is a real and recognized medical condition that causes people to sweat 4 or 5 times more than normal. It can disrupt all aspects of a person's life, from career choices and recreational activities to relationships, emotional well being, and self-image. But there is help, support and effective treatment. Visit www.SweatHelp.org to learn more, find a hyperhidrosis doctor, or download information for you or that sweaty someone you love.

About the International Hyperhidrosis Society
IHHS is an independent non-profit organization committed to reducing the symptoms, anxiety and social stigma associated with the excessive sweating condition of 178 million affected children, teens and adults worldwide.

School Nurses Bring Hope to Sweaty Kids: Virginia Schools Kick-off “Know Sweat In School” campaign

Richmond, VA, September 15, 2010 - As the hottest summer on record melts into the first days of the new school year, kids across the country begin the oh-so-painful transition from carefree to classroom. But for thousands of Virginia school division students, the school nurse will be ready to help them cope with a more socially difficult transition - excessive sweating.

Sadly, most children who experience excessive sweating symptoms (or hyperhidrosis) aren't aware they have a treatable condition or are too afraid to talk to anyone -- even parents -- about the problem. The Know Sweat in School campaign was created specifically to tackle this issue. Thanks to a grant from Secret Clinical Strength(R) and Gillette Clinical Strength(R) antiperspirants, the International Hyperhidrosis Society (IHHS, online at www.SweatHelp.org) has just developed a program kit to bring essential education and support to school children through the familiar face of the school nurse.

During the month of September, a sampling of registered nurses (RNs) and licensed practical nurses (LPNs) throughout Virginia's 132 school divisions will be sent a Know Sweat in School program kit to increase their awareness of the technical information and issues associated with hyperhidrosis. The eventual goal is to provide kits to all 1200 school nurses throughout the state.

"The nurse's office is a safe haven for most school kids," said Tia Campbell, school health specialist in the Virginia Department of Education's Office of Special Education & Student Services. "For many children, the school nurse is the only healthcare professional they have, so it's a good place to begin for a child with questions. While we don't diagnose, we can refer a child with any concerns to the appropriate dermatologist."

Elements of the Know Sweat in School kit include: * Nurse Information Sheet describing hyperhidrosis in medical terms * Several teen-oriented posters for display * Handouts for students with excessive sweating concerns * Teen Sweat booklets * Samples of clinical strength antiperspirants with directions on proper usage

Children with additional questions can access specific information and a list of local doctors trained in hyperhidrosis diagnosis and treatment at the web site of the International Hyperhidrosis Society www.SweatHelp.org

Excessive sweating is a dermatological condition affecting at least 3 percent of the world population. The disorder can cause an otherwise healthy person to produce up to five times more sweat than is normal or necessary. Symptoms usually start in the early- to mid-teen years. Already an awkward time of growth and development for most children, the added pressure of dealing with a 'sweating problem' around peer groups in a classroom setting can be devastating to both self-esteem and grades. Children can end up scared to raise their hands in class for fear of embarrassment from sweat stains; often sitting in the back row under a dark 'Hoodie' to keep their condition hidden.

On September 25, the Eastern Virginia Medical School and IHHS will join forces to sponsor a CME session for medical practitioners. Area nurses and doctors will participate in an accredited hands-on training seminar learning how to diagnose and treat excessive sweating symptoms.

"Hyperhidrosis is the number one dermatological disease in terms of negatively affecting a person's quality of life, yet is also number one in having the most dramatically positive impact on people's live when treated. Our seminars help us educate our medical professionals on diagnosing symptoms earlier. Caught early, this can literally change the life of a young person with the condition," said Dr. David Pariser, founding IHHS board member and the 2009 president of the American Academy of Dermatology.

The Know Sweat in School program was made possible with the support of Secret Clinical Strength(R) and Gillette Clinical Strength(R) antiperspirants.

About the International Hyperhidrosis Society

The International Hyperhidrosis Society is an independent non-profit organization committed to reducing the symptoms, anxiety and social stigma associated with excessive sweating of an estimated 176 million affected children, teens and adults worldwide. The IHHS supports hyperhidrosis research, educates healthcare professionals in optimal diagnosis and care, raises awareness about the condition's emotional and economic impacts, and advocates for patient access to effective treatments while increasing public understanding of this debilitating medical condition.

The International Hyperhidrosis Society's Web site, www.SweatHelp.org, includes a Physician Finder to help anyone with excessive sweating to find medical help, information on additional treatment options, and a comprehensive collection of insurance and reimbursement tools, including downloadable forms, which can help sufferers work with their physicians and health insurance plans to get the correct coverage for necessary treatments. There are practical tips to make the most out of appointments with physicians and information on clinical trials and a free newsletter that will keep everyone current on hyperhidrosis news and medical breakthroughs. And because hyperhidrosis usually starts in the teen years, the IHHS has created an online teen forum to help teenagers learn how to cope with the condition and find effective solutions. A free brochure and an award-winning teen workbook can also be ordered from the Web site.

International Hyperhidrosis Society(R) is a registered trademark of the International Hyperhidrosis Society.

Secret Clinical Strength(R) and Gillette Clinical Strength(R) are registered trademarks of Procter and Gamble.

Both Ms. Campbell and Dr. Pariser are available for interviews.

Lisa J. Pieretti This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 610.346.6008

A Different Kind of Valentine’s Day Story

Quakertown, PA – February 9, 2010 -- “I knew he was the one for me when he held my hand without flinching, even when I tried to pull away out of embarrassment. He told me he didn’t care and continued to hold my hand.”

This early tender moment eventually led to love, an engagement and an unforgettable wedding day. But to Therese Hernando, it meant more than just a romantic gesture. It literally affected her skin-deep.

Therese has suffered with a dermatologic disorder called Hyperhidrosis since she was six years old, leaving her with perpetually wet hands and feet. Throughout her teen years, socializing was difficult since her condition made her shy about shaking hands with new friends or taking the hand of her dates. The moment her future husband held her hands, she hoped worries about her sweaty palms were behind her. They were, until she started to plan the wedding.

“I couldn’t even touch my dress for fear of ruining it with my sweaty hands. I would hold my hands out to the side during fittings. I didn’t know if I could wear these beautiful satin peep-toe shoes in a champagne color for fear the sweat stains would show through!”

Wendy Stewart, a dressmaker/tailor based in Wilmington, DE. has worked on her share of wedding gowns. After more than 30 years in the business, she knows first hand the unfortunate effect of sweat on garments. “Both satin and iridescent taffeta will harden when perspiration sets in, making for a very crunchy walk down the aisle!”

According to Dr. David Pariser, 2009 president of the American Academy of Dermatology and founding board member of the International Hyperhidrosis Society (IHHS), some 176 million people worldwide (approximately 3% of the population) are afflicted with this rare disorder which causes their bodies to secrete up to 5 times the amount of sweat that is normal or necessary to maintain a steady body temperature. People with hyperhidrosis sweat profusely nearly all day, every day. This usually occurs in focal areas such as the hands, armpits, feet and face. The good news is that medical help is easily attainable and often covered by insurance. The IHHS website www.SweatHelp.org provides education, support and medical resources to affected children, teens and adults worldwide. The site’s hyperhidrosis Physician Finder database helps individuals locate doctors familiar with hyperhidrosis and trained by IHHS on hyperhidrosis treatment methods.

Another recent bride, Sophia Zambas Wastler, always knew she had some kind of problem with extreme perspiration of her underarms, feet and hands but never knew it was a disease with a name until, at age 31, she casually mentioned it to her doctor. Once she learned that treatments existed, she found Dr. David Pariser on the IHHS website’s Physician Finder link. After meeting with him, she immediately began receiving BOTOX® injections, one of several treatment options, in her hands every six months. With her hyperhidrosis under control for the first time in her life, she went out dancing -- and met the man she would soon marry.

“The treatment gave me the confidence to go out! We both loved to dance, and when I told him later that I was receiving treatment for hyperhidrosis, he just held my hands tighter and said it didn’t make a difference to him.”

This past year Sophia married her ‘dancer’ in a traditional Greek ceremony that requires the bride and groom to hold hands throughout. To prepare herself for the June wedding, she made sure to get her treatments in April. “The whole day was magical. Nothing went wrong. It was amazing.”

And Therese’s wedding?

“After receiving treatments, a whole new world opened up for me. On my wedding day, I didn’t have to hold my hands to the side or carry a napkin. I wasn’t worried about meeting and shaking the hands of my in-laws. And when we danced our first dance as husband and wife, I didn’t have to pull my hands away from my new husband, except to wipe the tears of joy from my face.”

Hyperhidrosis Recognized as Legitimate Skin Disease by Major Health Organizations

Quakertown, PA – February 24, 2010 -- After years of seeking legitimacy as a bonafide skin disease affecting 178 million people worldwide, hyperhidrosis, an excessive sweating disorder, has been recognized as such by the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and the Coalition of Skin Diseases (CSD). “The real victory here is for the millions of men, women and children who are afflicted with this disease,” said David Pariser, MD 2009 president of the American Academy of Dermatology and founding board member of the International Hyperhidrosis Society (IHHS). “For so long, they have suffered in isolation and shame from a condition not understood by the public and even members of the medical community. Today, I join them in taking this thrilling next step in our steady climb towards global awareness and education.”

As the leading authority on hyperhidrosis, IHHS has put substantial medical muscle behind its website, www.SweatHelp.org. The site provides information and hope to affected individuals and families looking for answers on dealing with this debilitating condition – which may be covered by insurance. The site’s hyperhidrosis Physician Finder database helps individuals locate IHHS-trained doctors worldwide.

Hyperhidrosis is a treatable medical condition that results in sweating that exceeds the normal amount required to maintain consistent body temperature – up to five times the average volume. (The age of onset can be as young as infancy and usually by early-to-mid teens). This excessive sweating occurs regardless of environmental surroundings – people with hyperhidrosis sweat profusely nearly all day, every day. Primary hyperhidrosis can affect one or more body areas, most often the palms, armpits, soles of the feet or face and sometimes the groin and under the breasts in men and women. Secondary hyperhidrosis, however, is generalized, typically involving the sweating over the whole body and caused by an underlying condition like diabetes or medication like some popular anti-depressants.

“IHHS now has the added strength of tremendous partners in advocacy by joining the NORD and CSD communities. Their commitment to increased awareness, research and education mirrors our own,” said IHHS Executive Director Lisa J. Pieretti.

The National Organization for Rare Disorders is a unique non-profit federation of voluntary health organizations dedicated to helping people with rare ‘orphan’ diseases. This voluntary health agency is committed to the identification, treatment, and cure of rare disorders through programs of education, advocacy, research and service. For more information, visit their website at www.rarediseases.org.

The Coalition of Skin Diseases consists of several organizations that represent patients suffering from some of the 3,000 known types of skin disease. The groups share a common mission of educating patients, advocacy and supporting skin disease research that will lead to new treatments and cures. Learn more about them by visiting www.coalitionofskindiseases.org.

Lisa J. Pieretti This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. 610.346.6008

SWEATING THE INTERVIEW: Excessive Sweaters need not apply?

Quakertown, PA – January 8, 2010 -- If success is one per cent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration, then it might follow that the hyperhidrosis sufferer should have no trouble gaining employment. Not so fast! According to a recent International Hyperhidrosis Society (IHHS) employment survey of people dealing with issues of excessive sweating, the condition, also known as hyperhidrosis, can deter potential employers from hiring otherwise capable candidates and even deter those afflicted from seeking employment altogether.

"It comes as no surprise that our survey has confirmed the debilitating effect of hyperhidrosis on employment," says Dr. David Pariser, president of the world-renowned American Academy of Dermatology and founding board member of IHHS. "In today's tough economy, job seekers need every possible edge to make a good first impression on potential employers. Unfortunately, the excessive sweating disorder is often misinterpreted as a lack of confidence, negatively influencing chances of being selected as a job candidate."

Conducted by the International Hyperhidrosis Society, the survey reveals the impact of the sweat condition on job interviews and career choices. The findings are dramatic, especially among those living with the affliction. The survey numbers clearly show the personal and professional toll experienced by individuals with hyperhidrosis. Because of concerns about excessive underarm sweat;

• 86% of those surveyed say they are fearful of going on job interviews,

• 27% avoid job interviews altogether,

• 88% say they avoid professions which are likely to reveal their ailment,

• 67% avoid speaking in public while in a professional setting, and

• More than half (56%) has had to avoid giving a presentation due to excessive underarm sweat.

The survey's most shocking find is that nearly 1-in-4 adults (24%) don't know that chronic excessive sweating is a treatable medical disorder. The social stigma and lack of understanding about this life-altering condition, even by those who live with it, is especially tragic when help and hope are so easily attainable.

Human resources consultant and transformational life coach Suzanne Eder is a strong proponent of job seekers utilizing all means of assistance to become advocates for their personal success and happiness. "The most essential element required to develop a deeply satisfying career is maintaining a state of inner peace and confidence. Without that strong foundation, self-doubt can erode the creative potential of even the most qualified person for a given opportunity. I would strongly encourage anyone dealing with the challenges of hyperhidrosis to reach out for the support and treatment they need and deserve."

The International Hyperhidrosis Society website www.SweatHelp.org provides education, support and medical resources to an estimated 176 million affected children, teens and adults worldwide. Translated into multiple languages; visitors to the site soon discover that a network of support systems exist, that a variety of treatment programs are largely covered by insurance, and that there is a resource leader to turn to for answers to every question there is about the disorder. The site's hyperhidrosis Physician Finder database helps individuals locate doctors worldwide. The link focuses solely on physicians that are both familiar with hyperhidrosis and trained by the IHHS on treatment methods.

Hyperhidrosis is a treatable medical condition that results in sweating that exceeds the normal amount required to maintain consistent body temperature – up to five times the average volume. This excessive sweating occurs regardless of environmental surroundings – people with hyperhidrosis sweat profusely nearly all day, every day. Primary hyperhidrosis can affect one or more body areas, most often the palms, armpits, soles of the feet or face and sometimes the groin and under the breasts in men and women. Secondary hyperhidrosis, on the other hand, is generalized, typically involving the whole body.

Patients with severe sweating should seek medical advice from dermatologists who can provide diagnosis and treatments, often covered by insurance, ranging from prescription-strength anti-perspirants to BOTOX®.

The International Hyperhidrosis Society Survey on Excessive Underarm Sweating and its Impact on Adults in the Workplace was conducted September 23 to October 4, 2009. A nationwide sample of 2,068 U.S. adults aged 18 years and older participated in the survey. The survey also includes an additional study of 233 U.S. adults aged 18 years and older, all diagnosed with hyperhidrosis.

The International Hyperhidrosis Society is committed to reducing the symptoms, anxiety and social stigma associated with excessive sweating by offering education, support and medical resources to 176 million affected children, teens and adults worldwide. The IHHS supports hyperhidrosis research, educates healthcare professionals in optimal diagnosis and care, raises awareness about the condition's emotional and economic impacts, and advocates for patient access to effective treatments while increasing public understanding of this debilitating medical condition.

The International Hyperhidrosis Society's Web site, www.SweatHelp.org, includes a hyperhidrosis Physician Finder to help anyone with excessive sweating to find medical help, information on excessive sweating treatment options, and a comprehensive collection of hyperhidrosis insurance and reimbursement tools, including downloadable forms, which can help sufferers work with their physicians and health insurance plans to get the correct coverage for necessary treatments. There are practical tips to make the most out of appointments with physicians, information on clinical trials and a free newsletter that will keep everyone current on hyperhidrosis news and medical breakthroughs. And because hyperhidrosis usually starts in the teen years, the IHHS has created an online teen forum to help teenagers learn how to cope with the condition and find effective solutions. A free brochure and an award-winning teen workbook can also be ordered from the Web site.

International Hyperhidrosis Society® is a registered trademark of the International Hyperhidrosis Society.

BOTOX® is a registered trademark of Allergan, Inc.

Don't Let Them See You Sweat This Summer

Pipersville, PA - July 23, 2009 /PRNewswire/ — For the millions of Americans suffering from hyperhidrosis, excessive sweating, the body's mechanism for cooling itself is overactive and can cause sweat production that is up to four or five times more than normal. While some people may only think about sweating during the hot summer months, individuals with hyperhidrosis may find excessive sweating can disrupt their daily and recreational activities, regardless of the season.

"While we all sweat, those suffering from hyperhidrosis may experience excessive sweating on their underarms and often need to change their clothing multiple times a day to hide their symptoms," says Lisa J. Pieretti, Executive director of the International Hyperhidrosis Society (IHHS), a non profit organization dedicated to help those with excessive sweating. "It's important to remember that hyperhidrosis is a treatable medical condition and it is possible to manage symptoms through medical treatment options."

The International Hyperhidrosis Society recommends following these simple steps to help control sweating this summer:

1. Stay hydrated: Drink early, drink often, and drink again. Sweat plays a critical role in keeping your body cool in hot temperatures. The key to keeping this internal air conditioning system working properly is drinking enough fluids.

2. Use a vaporizer or atomizer: Help the body's natural cooling system by using a vaporizer or atomizer to spray a light mist of water on the underarms. As the water evaporates the body will naturally cool down.

3. Wear loose, lightweight natural fabrics: Loose clothing enables perspiration to evaporate and natural, breathable fabrics "wick" moisture away from your underarms.

4. Apply antiperspirant twice daily: Application of a soft-solid antiperspirant formula to underarms twice daily (morning and before bedtime) has been shown to be more effective in controlling excessive sweat. Consider using a stronger, clinical-strength over-the-counter antiperspirant. Be sure the underarms are completely dry before applying product to reduce the chance of skin irritation.

5. Reach zen: Anxiety can increase sweat production. Control anxiety by breathing deeply and focusing internally.

6. Avoid sweat-inducing spicy foods and caffeinated beverages to help stay cool in the warmer weather.

7. Knock out body odor: Excessive underarm sweating can contribute to odors as the sweat dries and activates bacteria on your skin. Neutralize odors by sprinkling baking soda on affected clothing and on athletic gear after use.

8. Avoid mid-day workouts: When the sun is at its peek, the body is more inclined to sweat, so take advantage of the long summer days and plan an early morning or late evening workout.

9. Know your medications: There are a number of common medications that can exacerbate sweating. Make sure to check with your physician before you start any new medication, especially during the warmer summer months.

10. Talk to a dermatologist: When antiperspirants are not effective in controlling excessive underarm sweating, dermatologist may administer treatment with BOTOX® (onabotulinumtoxinA). Results last up to 6-7 months and treatment is often covered by insurance.

About the International Hyperhidrosis Society

The International Hyperhidrosis Society is a non-profit organization that strives to improve quality of life for those affected by excessive sweating. The Society promotes research and conducts education on the physiological effects of hyperhidrosis, raises awareness about its emotional and economic impact and advocates for patient access to effective treatments. The International Hyperhidrosis Society is composed of members from all over the world, making it a true international network for people who treat or suffer from hyperhidrosis.

Visit www.SweatHelp.org for further information and useful tools regarding excessive sweating, including: a hyperhidrosis Physician Finder, news updates, a self-assessment quiz, information about treatment options and how to make the best of your doctors appointment, insurance coverage tools, and free downloads. Also, you can sign-up to receive the free SweatSolutions e-newsletter.

About Hyperhidrosis

Hyperhidrosis is the medical term for excessive sweating. Patients with hyperhidrosis produce an amount of sweat that far exceeds that needed to regulate body temperature.

Hyperhidrosis can cause dehydration and skin problems, including infections secondary to skin maceration, and can be accompanied by strong odors. Some people may sweat so profusely that they need to change clothing several times a day.

Hyperhidrosis most frequently develops in adolescence or young adulthood. The underlying cause of the disorder is uncertain but genetics may play a role — one-third to one-half of patients has a family history of the disorder. Severe sweating may be exacerbated by stress, emotion or exercise, but often occurs spontaneously. The precise mechanism that triggers the condition is unclear but appears to be related to malfunction in the sympathetic nervous system — the part of the autonomic nervous system that regulates "involuntary" bodily functions (those we don't exert conscious control over) such as breathing, the heart beat, and regulation of body temperature. In people with hyperhidrosis, this system may produce too much of the neurotransmitter that triggers the eccrine glands to produce sweat, or the eccrine glands may be overreactive.

BOTOX® is a registered trademark of Allergan, Inc

International Hyperhidrosis Society® is a registered trademark of the International Hypherhidrosis Society

As Summer Heats Up, New Survey Reveals Need for Effective Sweat Treatments

(NEW YORK - June 18, 2008) - As the thermometer rises, so does the humidity. For many, the humidity can be annoying, but for the nearly 8 million Americans who suffer from a treatable condition called hyperhidrosis [1], or excessive sweating, the humidity can be unbearable. Hyperhidrosis creates sweaty underarms, sweaty palms, sweaty feet, dripping sweat from the face, among other areas of excessive sweating, and though not caused by heat, is aggravated by heat or anxiety.

The International Hyperhidrosis Society (IHHS), a nonprofit organization dedicated to those who have the condition, commissioned Harris Interactive to conduct a survey among nearly 3,000 U.S. adults to find out how sweat affects the general adult population, not just those who suffer from hyperhidrosis. The survey found that one third of U.S adults (33%) think that they have too much underarm sweat, yet only three percent [1] of the U.S. population are known to suffer from hyperhidrosis – even less from excessive underarm sweating specifically.

The findings also revealed that more than half of U.S. adults (60%) would be embarrassed or very embarrassed by visible underarm sweat stains. Additionally, more adults would be embarrassed by visible underarm sweat stains than having bad acne (58%) or being overweight (47%). Furthermore, although more men (39%) feel they have too much underarm sweat compared to women (28%), more women would be embarrassed by underarm sweat than men (68% vs. 51% respectively). Young females are particularly affected by underarm sweat. The survey found that more than three in four (77%) young females (ages 18 to 34) would be embarrassed by underarm sweat and about half (49%) feel that they have too much underarm sweat.

Interestingly, the survey found that, of those who think they have too much underarm sweat, only 5% have consulted a healthcare professional; many more altered their lifestyle to cope, for example, by avoiding certain clothing or activities. Executive director of the IHHS, Lisa J. Pieretti, says, "Many people do not realize that excessive underarm sweat is a treatable medical condition, therefore going undiagnosed and untreated. People do not have to alter their lifestyle to accommodate or suffer in silence; many physicians, specifically dermatologists, specialize in the treatment of excessive underarm sweating, offering a range of treatments from prescription strength topical antiperspirants to BOTOX® (Botulinum Toxin Type A) injections."

Most U.S. adults who think they have too much underarm sweat (70%) go to various lengths to hide or prevent their underarm sweat – mostly altering activities (47%) and clothing choices (49%). For example, the survey found that about a third of those who think they have too much underarm sweat avoid raising their arms (35%) and others avoid hugging or putting their arms around people (18%) and participating in sports and athletic activities that may induce sweating (17%). Some even try and avoid giving presentations at work or school (5%) for fear of revealing underarm sweat stains. Additionally, they make clothing choices based on too much underarm sweat -- avoiding certain fabrics (25%), avoiding some colors (21%) and frequently choosing others (e.g., black) (19%), carrying additional clothing (12%) and changing clothes several times daily (11%).

To help both excessive sweaters and normal sweaters stay dry in the hot, humid weather, the IHHS (visit the Society online at www.SweatHelp.org) have compiled the following list of summer survival tips.

• Drink early, drink often, and drink again – thirst is simply a sign your fluid levels are already low. Sweat plays a critical role in keeping your body cool in hot temperatures. The key to keeping this internal air conditioning system working properly is drinking enough fluids. If your urine is relatively clear you know you are drinking enough.

• Wear loose, lightweight natural fabrics, and light-colored clothing. Loose clothing enables perspiration to evaporate and natural, breathable fabrics "wick" moisture away from your skin. Some of today's hi-tech textiles even include copper and silver to fight odor-causing bacteria and keep you cooler.

• Protect your skin - sweating is yet another consequence of sun-damaged or burned skin, because it is not as effective at dissipating body heat. Stay out of direct sunlight whenever possible, wearing sunscreen, and consider wearing a wide-brimmed or long billed hat such as the ones found at www.Coolibar.com. For extreme sweaters, waterproof sunscreen gel or "sweat proof" and "sports" formulations are the best bets.

• Choose lightweight, breathable or ventilated shoes – when it's hot outside, temperature in shoes can reach 120F. The IHHS recommends wearing open sandals or using sweat absorbing inserts such as Summer Soles (www.SummerSoles.com) –a 10% off coupon is available on www.SweatHelp.org! Absorbent foot powders and antiperspirants can also be used on feet to minimize sweating and moisture buildup. Ask your dermatologist or podiatrist for a recommendation.

• Change your antiperspirant routine and bust "pit stains." Choose a soft-solid formula and apply antiperspirant to underarms once in the morning and again prior to bedtime. Application twice daily—and especially before bedtime—has been shown to be more effective. Gently massaging the antiperspirant into the skin may be useful. Consider using a stronger over-the-counter antiperspirant such as Secret Clinical Strength. To avoid irritation, only apply antiperspirant to completely dry skin. If you suffer from an annoyingly sweaty face, consider applying an antiperspirant along your hairline. Follow the application tips mentioned above but test the product on a tiny area of skin first to make sure that it won't cause irritation.

• Talk to a dermatologist about the effective treatments for excessive sweating including: over-the-counter or prescription antiperspirants, iontophoresis, and BOTOX®. Visit www.SweatHelp.org to use the International Hyperhidrosis Society's Physician Finder to locate an experienced health care provider.

About the Survey:

This International Hyperhidrosis Society study was conducted online within the United States by Harris Interactive between March 6 and March 10, 2008 among 2,897 adults ages 18+, of whom, 1,033 feel they have too much underarm sweat. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated.

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[1] Strutton, et. al., "US Prevalence of Hyperhidrosis and Impact on Individuals with Axillary Hyperhidrosis: Results from a National Survey." Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, August 2004, Volume 51, Number 2.